Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I am getting married in a few months on a shoe string budget and I need to find a hairstylist and makeup artist that I can afford. So far I haven't found anyone yet - any suggestions? I'm freaking out!

Signed,

Bride on a Budget

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Dear B.O.A.B.,

A bride in your financial position has to be resourceful. And the best resource for you would be to contact a local cosmetology school. There are pluses and minuses to this suggestion but it must be said that this is a vastly untapped resource of raw talent that could work to your advantage as long as you know what - and who - you are looking for.

You need to find a student in their final year of studies that would be willing to do your hair for whatever your budget can bare and/or in exchange for giving them permission to use your photo in their look book. Just be sure to test their skills by way of a hair trial appointment to make certain that they're up to the task of creating the perfect 'do for your I do's.

You could find a capable makeup artist in the same place as your ingénue hairstylist, but another suggestion would be to sit down with a makeup artist in a beauty department. You may be encouraged to make a purchase even if it is the consultation for the big day so if it comes down to the budget then stick with the student who would more than likely be willing to work with you price-wise. You will still want to have a consultation with them as well as a trial run the same as you would the hairstylist.

For both instances you want to take pictures from multiple angles to use when recreating the look you're going for. And don't be afraid to speak up if the hair or makeup isn't exactly how you imagined. Just because you're on a budget doesn't mean you have to cheat yourself out of what you've envisioned for your day.

If you start looking now you should be able to find someone to do your hair and makeup within your budget and with your exact vision in mind. Though to be honest, no one will be as concerned with your hair and makeup as how you look in your dress, the meal served at the reception and if there's an open bar and dance floor. Those are the elements of a wedding that guests will remember most. So take a deep breath and relax.

No one likes a frizzy, err, frazzled bride-to-be.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

My husband is in the military and I've tried taking him shopping for updated casual clothing but he won't budge. Any ideas how I can get him to at least open up to the idea of new clothes?

Signed,

Wife of a Drill Sergeant

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Dear W.O.A.D.S.,

A similar question was posed not long ago by a girl looking to revamp her boyfriend's wardrobe and the same advice applies: proceed with caution. Your husband probably wears army issued attire more than not, undoubtedly leading him to believe his civilian-wear is so under worn he doesn't need anything new, even if you believe the contrary.

So you'll have to initiate revamping his wardrobe. Start out by looking at the brands, sizes and even material composition of what he already owns and looks the best in. Take this information with you as you start to look at adding, and eventually subtracting by way of replacing, out-of-date pieces in his wardrobe.

Just be sure to keep him involved in the process. Although he may grimace at the idea of you spending money on new clothing for him, once you've done the choosing and the charging he'll warm up to the new wears. Most men don't have that much of an invested interest in their appearance due to women taking on the task of keeping their closets current. Without your assistance - or that of his mom, past girlfriends and current girl friends - he would probably be in worse sartorial shape than he is now. With that said, be sure not to throw out anything before consulting him first. Men can become very territorial - and sentimental - when it comes down to the incoming and outgoing of their wardrobes.

For the next phase of operation: closet overhaul, you'll want to try to get him to spend more time in the men's department browsing than you currently do. You want him to take an interest in shopping for himself. Ask him to try on everything you've recently purchased for him and solicit his honest feedback. You may notice after a a few rounds of retail therapy in his honor that he becomes more invested in his casual appearance. The ultimate goal is to not only turn around his wardrobe but his overall approach to shopping for himself. There's no such thing as a clothing commendation but if there was, you would be up for it after you are done with him. Consider your service for the greater clothing good complete: at ease shopper.

On a special note: To your husband, and to all the men and women who serve our great country, thank you.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I recently bought a fabulous handbag from an up-and-coming new line that uses Chinese brocade - that is silk and viscose - and has wonderful, very vibrant colors. The problem is that it wrinkles easily. I need a way to store it and keep the interface and brocade from wrinkling. Is there a wrinkle retardant? Can I iron brocade and interfacing or do I steam it? I am also worried about how I would handle keeping it clean or removing a stain. The colors are so vibrant I am worried about them fading easily or stains showing up easily. Help!!

Signed,

Silk Purse Panic

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Dear S.P.P.,

Keeping your purse from wrinkling is fairly simple - in theory. When the bag is not being used, fill it with packing paper, bubble wrap or a few pairs of clean socks. This will help maintain its intended shape and reduce wrinkles. (Avoid using newspaper or printed on paper, as the ink has the potential to rub off onto the lining of the bag.) If the purse did not come with a cloth storage bag (also known as a "sleeper") you can use a pillow case to serve as a protector from dust, moisture and light.

Even with this system in place you still want to be prepared for the occasional wrinkle that may occur. You can iron the bag using the silk or delicate material setting, but a steamer would be easier to handle and significantly reduce your risk of causing heat-related damage to the fabric. Depending on how large of an opening the bag has, you want to look at steaming it from the inside. This should release most of the wrinkles and not affect the outward appearance. To avoid burning yourself, invest in a pair of steamer gloves, which may come in handy for future sticky steaming situations like this.

To help combat stains, Scotchgard is safe enough to use on silk, but you will still want to do a color test on a small, inconspicuous spot to ensure it won't alter the bag's overall coloring. In the event that a stain still manages to materialize, these tips on washing silk should help restore your bag back to purse perfection.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I lived the past 32-years of my life in warm climates and now, for work, I moved to a place with a real winter. I saw snow for maybe the fifth time in my life and knew I wasn't ready for this climate change clothing wise. Any tips on getting a guy ready for winter without having me overdo it? I can withstand most of the cold, just maybe a few suggestions on where to get a good jacket.

Signed,

Cold Weather Warrior

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Dear C.W.W.,

If there was ever a moment to get on a soap box to vent about men not being properly dressed for winter weather its now. For whatever reason fellas, most of you seem content with having one universal wardrobe that is somehow always slanted towards being dressed for warm weather even in the dead of winter. Countless guys seem to brave the cold with their shoulders raised, head lowered and hands shoved into their pockets. It's deplorable.

So in addition to the tips provided in this previous post, you may benefit from a few others. Look for fine gauge sweaters and trousers made of wool (think merino and cashmere for sweaters; select wool trousers with a silk lining to avoid irritation); a wool overcoat for work and semi-formal occasions; corduroy pants (look for a thinner wale unless you want your pants to age you by 20 years) and rubber overshoes when weather conditions threaten your footwear.

And don't forget to add a few winter accessories to your newly acquired winter wardrobe. Despite the grievous misconception, guys do in fact wear scarves, gloves, hats and extra layers when the weather calls for it. Or at least the smart ones do. Trying to be cool in winter just makes you look...cold.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I've noticed a trend towards women dyeing their hair red and I'm thinking I want to try it. I'm a natural brunette with brown eyes so I feel like the red would really spruce things up, wouldn't you agree?

Signed,

Dyeing to go Red

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Dear D.T.G.R.,

Choosing to go red is a bold move, much like the color itself. Since this is your first foray into the realm of red hair color, its best to avoid any "kitchen beautician" inklings that you may have and seek the aid of a professional hair colorist. They will help you determine the best shade of red for your skin tone, if you are better served with a single-process color or highlights, and recommend a hair style and/or cut that will compliment the agreed upon shade.

As for your wardrobe, most jewel tones - think emerald green, sapphire blue, topaz yellow, amethyst purple and turquoise - will serve you best when choosing tops, dresses and even jewelry that come in contact with your hair. It was once believed that redheads should stay away from certain colors, expressly orange, pink and red, but this rule has been all but thrown out the window.

G. Adam Stanislav, a red-haired photographer, was once quoted as saying: "there is more, much more, to being a redhead than the color of one's hair." So trends withstanding, pop stars of late who decide to dip their heads in the color spin wheel for adulation are not the best examples to dye by. You want to take your fashion queues from stylish famous redheads that choose to wear their hair color with understated, yet classic style.

So the long answer to your question is yes, dyeing your hair red - of any shade - will definitely spruce things up. It may even ignite a spark in you you've never known was there. To quote an unknown author: "All throughout history, from Reuben to Robbins, redheads have been recognized as a rare breed. Blondes may have more fun, brunettes may be brainier, but when it comes down to raw energy, creativity, and personality ... you just can't beat a redhead. Well, you can but beware ... she'll probably beat you back!"

For fun facts on redheads.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I'm thinking about growing a beard but my wife isn't too thrilled with the idea. Any advice on how I can convince her otherwise?

Signed,

Fan of Facial Hair

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Dear F.O.F.H.,

Seeing is believing my friend. The only way to convince your wife, and others, that you would look good with a beard is to start growing one. If you've never attempted one before be prepared: the first 2-4 weeks can be very tough and telling of how committed you are to the process.

Vacations or extra long weekends are great times to look at letting the preliminary whiskers take root. If you don't have that kind of time expect to endure an unsettling amount of "are you trying to grow a beard?" questions. Your self-esteem may take a few hits to the (scruffy) chin but its best to avoid shaving, or shaping up, any facial hair for the first four weeks. This will give you the best idea of how fast your facial hair grows, which areas are slower to fill in and if you're capable of producing a full beard altogether.

During this phase you may experience coarse hair, uneven growth and some itching, but these are all the growing pains that men must endure to attain a healthy beard. Your face will eventually adapt to the hair growth but in the interim try using a mild shampoo 2-to-3 times a week or applying hydrocortisone 1% as needed to counter the discomfort. Rubbing a capful of vitamin E oil will also help reduce the itching and irritation, as well as provide nourishing qualities that promote hair growth and healthy skin. During this growing out process, you should still plan to comb or brush your beard into some form of unruly submission.

After you've successfully survived a month of growing out your facial hair, your next challenge is to determine what beard would work best for you. Even with your willingness to try out this uncharted facial texture, it may not be in your genes to grow a full beard. In this instance, it may be best to refer to this facial hair chart to settle on which alternative helps you put your best fuzzy face forward.

If you don't already have a quality beard trimmer then now's definitely the time to invest. If nothing else, you want to trim the arrant hairs that may grow higher on your cheeks, close to your eyes and especially those on your neck.

Maintain your facial mane with weekly washes and trims. This will soften the hair and make it that much more manageable. You can use the same shampoo as the one for your head of hair, as long as its mild enough not to irritate the skin on your face. If the shampoo that you use has a hair restorative quality it may help fill in the slow-to-grow parts of your beard as well.

Your choice to shave against the societal grain takes as much courage as it does hair to fill in a beard. Surely many men have thought about doing this but so few actually go threw with it. Men of late have become obsessed with removing all traces of hair, but a beard is bold, masculine and when done properly, a smart and stylish addition to a man's aesthetic. With this small facial gesture you've taken a virile step that reminds us of what separates the men from the boys...and girls.

Worst case scenario? You could always shave it off.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

What is your opinion on the UGG boot? I will wear them out when I am shopping or doing errands (never to a fancy occasion or a night out), usually with a pair of skinny jeans. Usually I wear them because they are SO warm. Also I think they are way cuter than a pair of sneakers and more comfortable than a pair of boots with a heel. I have read some people say they shouldn’t be worn out. What are your thoughts? Are they ok to wear out or should I keep them in my house?

Signed,

Ugg Boot Etiquette

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Dear U.B.E.,

Safely assuming you're referring to the classic short UGG boot style, it can be inferred from this post that there is no reason for you to relegate your boots to being expensive slippers. The classic style in particular predates the Hollywood-induced mania at the turn of the millennium. Although they can be traced back as far as the 1920's, it wasn't until the late 1970's that Australian surfer Brian Smith would introduce UGG boots to the U.S. Like Smith, they were favored by surfers who would slip them on after hitting the waves because of their warmth and absorbency.

Fast forward to 1995 when UGG began nationwide campaigns to expand the companies image beyond that of a "beach boot". Within five years, the company was a household name, thanks to celebrities and the country's growing obsession with not only their every move, but what they wore while moving. Celebrities wardrobes became the new social status standard to reach. Even after it was revealed that many of the stylish celebs were doing more borrowing than buying, companies had already exploited the middle-class's never ending pursuit to keep up with the Joneses. Many had already invested in what they thought were celebrity-approved fashions when in fact, they were just pawns in the game of excess. Since the classic short UGGs meteoric success was considered a trend popularized by celebs, they fell victim to fashion critics who swiftly gave them the metaphoric boot.

Consumers were forced to either choose to eat the cost and move past the "trend" or stand beside, or really in, their sheepskin footwear. As a result, the argument as to whether UGGs are "out" or "in" continues to play out, but that doesn't mean you have to play into it. Celebs may have popularized the boot to the brink of fashion ruin, but they at least had good reason to. For the quality and workmanship, UGGs provide the sort of comfort and warmth that makes them worth the ambiguous notoriety.

In the future, if you ever grow tired of your current UGGs, keep in mind that the brand offers a variety of boot styles and even added casual footwear so you now have the option to schlep around in sheep all year long. The companies expansion into apparel, home furnishings and children's wear just further proves that the company is staking its claim and proving that they're larger than a fad. So be assured that your boots, and this company, are here to stay. And judging by their ability to make such a fuss every year, it wouldn't be a surprise to find that they have more plans up their sheepskin sleeves.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

This cold weather is giving me really dry skin. Any advice on a winter moisturizing routine?

Signed,

All Dried Out

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Dear A.D.O.,

Winter's can be really tough on skin for all the reasons you're already thinking: frigid temperatures + undetectable humidity = dry, sometimes itchy, skin. It should also be pointed out that heating systems and hot showers are also contributing to your dried out epidermis.

So for starters, try showering at night in warm water and lathering yourself in lotion after drying off. Limit your showers to just the one at night and plan it once you know you won't be heading back out into the cold moisture-wicking air. Before or during your shower is also a great time to exfoliate the skin and rid it of damaged, dry skin cells. Look for face washes, shower sponges and/or loofahs and pumice stones that will help scrub the skin but without being so abrasive that it does more harm than good.

Also think of investing in a humidifier to keep the air in your home (and office) moist. The obvious benefit here is this machine will prevent your skin from drying out as quickly and retain what moisture your lipid layer is able to produce.

You also want to think of moisturizing from within. Keep skin looking hydrated by drinking the daily recommended amount of water each day. Exercising in the winter also helps promote healthy looking skin because of the increased blood flow and circulation. And it should almost go without saying, but dress appropriately for cold weather. Protect your hands, head and feet with proper winter accessories. If you wear a skirt, pair it with tights. Wear layers when the temperature calls for it, but be sure that you are kept warm and dry through breathable fabric.

Other recommendations: sunscreen to keep your face protected from harmful UV rays that are present even in cold weather; sleeping in moisturizing gloves and socks at night; keep a travel-sized bottle of lotion with you to be applied after washing your hands in a public restroom; invest in a moisturizing lip balm.

If your skin still appears dry after putting an ample amount of these suggestions into your routine you may want to consult a dermatologist to be sure you don't have eczema. Either way, with proper care and diligence you should be able to get through this winter, and those ahead, with little trouble and even less troubled skin.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

My boyfriend is starting to sleep over more and I'm thinking I need to invest in some real pajamas. I'm a petite girl in height and weight and usually wear a tank top and boy's boxers to bed. I want to be a little sexier but not wear lingerie to bed every night.

Signed,

Pajama Girl

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Dear P.G.,

Before buying pajamas you want to consider your unconscious comfort level. Think about your sleep pattern: do you get warm in the middle of the night - either by nature or because of your boyfriend's body heat? Toss and turn? Back and forth to the bathroom? Or perhaps you're a light sleeper? In addition to helping you decide what pajamas you'd be most comfortable in, your answers may also be helpful in determining how much sleep you're getting a night and if it's enough.

But lets not count the sheep before they jump the fence to get to the mall. Now that you're armed with your sleep study results you can begin your search for the perfect pj's. Start with department stores since their inventory of sleepwear tends to run the gamut from babydoll cami's with matching panties to flannel onesies. Look for natural materials that breath in addition to being comfortable and pleasing to your (boyfriend's) eye. Cotton, silk and satin are your best material bets.

Even after you have an idea of what looks good and feels good on, still take the time to explore the many variations of sleepwear offered. After all, pajamas have diversified from being just for the bedroom. Under the guise of "lounge wear" many consumers have adopted comfortable, yet fashionable, ensembles that can be worn around the house - with an emphasis on around the house. Look for coordinates that range from shorts and tanks to pants and tops, keeping in mind what's most important: the materials used, the fit and of course its appeal...to sleep in.

But as a word of caution, once you buy a set of pajamas its hard to ignore the multitude of sleep wear accessories and sleep aids. What's a set of pajamas without the matching bathrobe? Or what about slippers? Then of course there are earplugs, sleeping eye masks, sound machines and need it be said: a quality mattress with high thread count sheets and firm pillows.

Your boyfriend sleeping over may cost you more than you bargained for, but in the long run it could be the best thing that ever happened to you and your bed. Investing in the relationship you and he has is important but so is the investment you're making in your relationship with sleep. A boyfriend in the bed sounds great, but a good night's sleep sounds just as sexy.

Want to know what you and your partner's sleep position says about your relationship? Use this guide to help decode your current sleeping arrangement or take this quiz to determine if you're compatible to really sleep together.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

A girlfriend has been telling me for years that I would look great with a short haircut and this year I decided to go for it! The cut looks great but none of my old accessories seem to look as good on now. Any advice?

Signed,

Short Hair Accessories

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Dear S.H.A.,

Its rather hard to believe that any accessory would fall prey to a haircut, especially when short hair seems to highlight any accessory worn, not diminish them. However, i

f your case is the rare exception, and you plan to maintain this cut for a year or more, then the solution isn't to buy more but wear less.

This new short hair allows your face to be more open, lengthens your neck and brings attention to your décolletage, so plan to highlight that in ways you didn't before.

Clothing that has built-in-bling, for example, will be all the eye needs as far as accessories are concerned. This lets your haircut stand out while your outfit still has sparkle.

Once you're used to your lopped locks new look, you will find that you can start to reincorporate accessories like scarves, necklaces and even headbands without them appearing out of sync with your hair. Keep your earrings to a simple stud for daily wear unless you feel comfortable with wearing a tear drop design. For dressy occasions, try to find a dress that opens up around your neck and collar bone. Remember: less hair means more of an opportunity to show more skin but in a demure and sophisticated fashion.

It is also advisable to consult a cosmetic representative of your favorite brand to recommend new moisturizers, concealers or even a new color palate since your face is now much more visible than before.

Consider this haircut as the precursor for a new chapter in your life.

From Twiggy and Mia Farrow's iconic short do's to the likes of Halle Berry, Sharon Stone and Michelle Williams, the short haircut has become a women's answer to feeling and looking rejuvenated. It could be the weight off the shoulders or just more of a metaphor for beginning anew, but e

very woman should

try a short haircut once in her life. Consider yourself one shear ahead of the game.

Even short hair requires a little mane-tenance. A few quick tips is all you need to ensure a healthy shorn look.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I'm looking to start the year off with a healthy closet cleaning. Any idea what I should do with the clothing I no longer want?

Signed,

Cleaning out my Closet

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Dear C.O.M.C.,

Cleaning out the closet is a great way to start off the year. But before you get lured into the temptation of the "retail write-off", there are a few other alternative solutions to consider before bidding your unwanted wears good-bye, that could be just as rewarding.

Once you've separated out what you're planning to donate its always a good idea to consider consignment shops for parting with some of your bigger ticket in-season items. Of course, said profit is based on a sliding scale set by the slippery slope of the economy and retail resale so don't expect too much. You will only earn back a fraction of what you originally paid, but since it was already set to be donated then a cash exchange of any amount is an added bonus. And since its money earned outside of your normal budget you can spend it or save it however you like.

Another idea is to consider organizing a clothing exchange party with a group of friends. Choose friends closest to you (in terms of size and clothing taste) and ask them to clean out their closets and bring over their best pieces they want to part with. Set a limit of how much to bring and what condition is to be considered acceptable for the exchange and you're all set. Within the time it takes to sift through the mall, you and your recessionista fashionista friends could create a new-to-you wardrobe out of each other's discards. One friend's trash is another's thrifty trend.

However, if the idea of cashing in on your clothing in one way or another seems more like a hassle than helpful, then taking the altruistic road may just be the answer for you. Any local charity, such as red cross or goodwill, will be more than happy to take your donation to assist someone in need.

There are many directions to consider and no matter whether you decide to go for retail resale, redistribution amongst friends or contributing to a charity, you have done something much larger than give away old clothing. You've either helped stimulate the economy, helped a budgeting friend shop without spending or supplied someone with not only a new outlook, but a new outfit, for the new year.

Now that you've got your closet cleaned out, use tips from this previous post to ensure it's also cleaned up.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

What is the appropriate length for a man's work pants? I'm noticing more guys wearing them shorter these days.

Signed,

Pants Length Question

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Dear P.L.Q.,

If you're asking whether or not its acceptable for men to wear high water pants, the short answer is no. The only exception would be for the man who's vocabulary included the name of fashion designer Thom Browne and was familiar with his suit aesthetic. But if the pant hem offender in question is not in the know of Browne then his pants have just become fashion faux pas fair game.

A man's pant break options fall into three major categories: medium, full and short. Most men opt for the medium break as it straddles the line best between the two more "extreme" breaks. It's referred to as the safest of the pant breaks because you would have them tailored to fall midway between the top of the sole of your shoe and its opening. A man of average height is most likely to wear this pant length. The full break is considered trendier since its tailored for a deeper crease in the front of the pant, landing its hem at the heel. Besides the trendy, most taller men prefer this hem to avoid a high water upheaval.

Lastly, the short break, e.g. "high waters", is the shortest of breaks for the most confident of men. The hem of this pant tends to hover, its break barely skimming the shoe's opening. Since the fashion-forwardness of this hem is usually accompanied by a deliberate "look", your average man's pant hem, nor your average man, would fall into this trendy category.

Which means what you are seeing daily are either pants purchased in incorrect lengths, alterations done before laundering or improper care altogether. Cause aside, men have come to compensate for this short-coming by wearing socks in the same hue as their pants to bridge the garment gap. And though its quite okay for a man to match his socks to his pants, it is not okay to attempt to pass off missing material as a fashion standard.

In the future, gentleman guilty of this sartorial snafu should plan to purchase pants long enough to launder and tailor without having to create a pant hem that hangs somewhere in the textile balance. To borrow (and adapt) a childhood rhyme: the water is low and the land is dry, there's no reason for your pants to be so high. Especially without good reason or good fashion sense.

Click here if you want to know if the type of pants you're buying are the best for your body type. It may be high time to break-up with ill fitting pants to get the pant break best for you.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I have a rather large backside and it seems like I can't ever find anything that will fit both my waist and hips. Do you have any suggestions on what I can wear that will fit properly?

Signed,

Pain in the Ass

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Dear P.I.T.A.,

There are many women who share in your posterior pain. There aren't many retailers that cater to women with curves and those that do want to flaunt the derrière, not disguise it. However, there are a few tips that could work for you.

When shopping for tops you want to look for those that will help conceal and/or break-up the continuity of your backside. Shirts that end below the waist in either vibrant colors or patterns help bring the attention away from your lower half. Also think about accessorizing with scarves, necklaces and any other adornment that will draw eyes up.

For jeans you want to opt for mid to low-rise dark denim with dark stitching in a boot cut or flared leg. The darker the color, the better for a minimizing effect. The leg width helps balance out your back end while you maintain a classic silhouette. Also look for pairs that offer a back pocket. Make sure that when you put them on that the pockets sit as centered over the midpoint of your backside as possible. Pockets help further facilitate the illusion of minimizing so the larger the pocket, the smaller your butt appears.

Most of the same rules for denim are applicable to searching for dress pants. You want to look for darker colors with a generous leg opening that sit at the hips. The low waist helps conceal/cut your back-end in half. For skirts and dresses, lean towards a pencil or flared opening. These two styles offer the best fit for your body but still help balance your silhouette. A-line skirts have the propensity to make your bottom half appear even larger.

When choosing jackets, go for darker colors that either flare over your butt or graze below it. Make sure that the fit is close to your body, allowing the jacket to show the contours of your shape while your back-end is covered and camouflaged.

Of course it almost goes without saying that besides body shapers, a good tailor will become your new best friend and best investment. In the future, focus on finding pants or skirts that fit comfortably over your hips and bottom. Any tailor worth his weight in sewing needles should be able to take in the waist to most your bottoms - old and new - providing you with pants and the like that fit properly.

Your situation is just another example that we all have body image issues to work through. Use the tips and minimizing tricks that work best for you, but try not to get too upset if you still feel like your backside is taking center stage. Sometimes instead of getting frustrated we must learn to accept the things we cannot change while changing what's in our power. Your butt may just be one of the things you can't change so accept it and focus on what's in front of you, not what's behind. Only then will you, and others, appreciate all of the other assets you have to offer.

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

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

A younger co-worker told me that women do not wear hose any longer. I can see that this is true in the summer, but what about in the winter? Is this true only in the warmer places in the south?

Signed,

Hung-Up on Hosiery

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Dear H-U.O.H.,

The answer to this question depends on who you ask. Older women will be more pron to scoff at the idea of no hose since they were required in most professional job settings. Younger women, like your colleague, would think otherwise because she is of the generation that ushered in a more relaxed dress code. One that embraced bare-legged fashion and adopted trousers as an acceptable addition to the women's professional work wardrobe, all but eliminating the need for pantyhose.

Wearing hose dates back just before the fifteenth century, and throughout all of its incarnations, has served as the buffer between bare legs and the elements. In our culture they were thought to provide warmth, conceal a host of imperfections, as well as smooth the appearance of skin, making it easier for women (and their thighs) to wear a skirt.

Unfortunately, pantyhose have also received their fair share of criticism. In addition to being un-recyclable and having the accessory lifespan of a fruit fly, they've been linked to a number of health risks including urinary tract infections, yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis and heat exhaustion. These are mostly attributed to the synthetic materials used not allowing proper airflow or moisture absorption, which can make wearing them not only uncomfortable but a breeding ground for a host of bacteria.

Today's woman is now armed with an arsenal of tools to remove unwanted leg hair and if necessary, spanx to tame the tummy and thighs without the hassle of hose. Pantyhose and stockings (and while we're at it, knee and ankle-highs) have been all but replaced by the recent popularity of tights and footless leggings. Since women today prefer bare legs in the summer, tights and leggings are worn more so out of necessity in colder weather with skirts or dresses to protect and cover would-be bare legs. In addition to warmth they also come in a variety of materials - namely cotton and other natural fibers (e.g. wool, silk or cashmere) that allow air circulation - colors and patterns, making them functional as well as fashionable. Not to mention they're usually much more durable than your typical nylon pantyhose.

So if women wear pantyhose today its a tell-tell sign that she's either of a generational mindset that wouldn't dare go bare down there or she's a trendy hipster in opaque tights or fishnets. Yet don't take this as a deterrent from wearing them. If pantyhose are an accessory you'd like to wear just know you're still in good company. As long as there are British women, drag queens, pop stars and the occasional fetishist, there will always be a place for pantyhose to run on someone's parade.

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