Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I recently graduated from college and after spending several months pounding the pavement I (finally!) found a job. The problem is I have to be there by 7:30 AM and its a 45-minute commute from where I live. I've been late a few times already and when I am on time my outfit is noticeably less pulled-together. Do you have any suggestions for ways I can get to work on time and be dressed well?

Signed,

Poor Timing

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Dear P.T.,

First and foremost, congratulations on finding a job. Now the goal is to keep said job! To do that you have to have a game plan for managing your time accordingly. Since you're not a morning person, it would be best to move your alarm clock from arms reach and across the room so you won't be tempted to hit snooze from the comfort of your bed. Another suggestion is that instead of an alarm, use the radio setting so you aren't startled awake. Choose a radio program or station that you like to listen to and it can not only serve as your wake-up call, but background noise while you start moving through your morning routine.

Your next task is to plan your outfits out before wearing them. The most common practice of this is to pick your clothes (including accessories) out the night before, but take it a step further. Take the time out of your weekend to pick out a week's worth of outfits and photograph them so you'll spend even less time agonizing over what to wear. You can put a date on the pictures so you'll know the last time you wore what when, but more than that, now you'll have a 'look book' created from your wardrobe that'll come in handy for more than just work.

Also make sure you're getting the right amount of sleep at night. These tips should help you correct any habits inhibiting a good night's rest. And if you really like this job you may want to start saving and planning to move closer to truncate your commute. Now hurry and put these tips into your routine: time is of the essence.

Have a fashion question? Need sartorial advice? Email me: Dwaun@shoppingsavage.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I want a pair of suede bucks for the summer but how can I wear them casually? I've only seen them worn with seersucker suits in the summer or something along those lines. Can they be worn with jeans? With shorts? Any other season besides summer?

Signed,

Gettin Buck

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Dear G.B.,

Bucks (short for "Buckskin") are one of the few men's shoe anomalies that straddle the fine line of "dressy casual" which, simply put, means that they can either be dressed up or down. Going in either direction is much less complicated than you think. To start, you must first decide which color will best suit your wardrobe. No longer are men relegated to the white, sand or tan color with brick colored soles (although one can never go wrong with a classic that's so right).

Once you've chosen a color (or two), its time to sit back and let the shoes do the rest of the work. As seen here, your Bucks don't have to match your outfit to be worn appropriately. In fact, with all the color options now available, you can have a veritable footwear field day mixing and/or matching this style shoe with your summer wardrobe.

A key element to pulling off the casual side of Bucks is to wear them sans socks and with a casual outfit, like shorts and a t-shirt. It's that simple. The shoes will elevate most any casual outfit's overall curb appeal and score you cool points with friends and fans of the shoe alike.

As far as wearing them in a season besides summer, don't be afraid to get your monies worth by stretching your Bucks wearability through to the Fall. With jeans, a woven shirt and a casual blazer, you'll look perfectly polished - albeit a tad preppy - for the weekend or a casual Friday at work without appearing overdressed or as if you're trying too hard to look relaxed. But even with these sartorial tips on how to treat and protect suede, opt for alternative footwear when your neck of the woods gets fall damp or winter wet with snow.

Many more guys should think to add a pair (or two) of these classic shoes into their footwear rotation. Bucks have proven that their popularity may ebb and flow, but with the new colors and styles, there's a pair out there for just about every guy, they just have to be open-minded enough to try them. As with anything, applying your personal style to something brings about a new interpretation, quite possibly inspiring someone else to try (on) something new. Long story short, there's more than one way to wear a Buck.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: Dwaun@shoppingsavage.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I've been dating a guy for close to a year and his family is very important to him. He just told me that they want to meet me and invited me to their home for the 4th of July. Its daunting enough that I have to meet his family, but what should I wear? Its a barbecue so that makes it much more casual which is another issue all together. How do I dress for the heat and his family without looking under or overdressed?

Signed,

Family and Fireworks on the Fourth

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Dear F.F.F.,

Unfortunately there is no advice, sartorial or otherwise, that could calm the nerve-wracking feelings associated with meeting someone's family for the first time. But there are a few wardrobe suggestions that could get you through the situation unscathed.

It sounds like your first inclination is to cover up which is the smartest, albeit hottest, decision you could make. You can achieve this look by planning to wear a maxi dress or long skirt and tank top. If you opt for the maxi dress, just be sure that it has at the least spaghetti straps. The last thing you want to do is have a tug-of-war with your strapless top all day long.

Another option would be a cotton sundress. If possible, look for one in light or bright colors to help deflect some sun and keep you looking summery and in season. Look for one that's at least knee-length and not too clingy; after a few hours outdoors the last thing you'll want is something fitted, potentially showing off every bead of sweat. And fabric that flows away from the body will allow air flow and keep you cooler.

A few other tips: wear your hair in a ponytail - or maybe even the au courant fish tail braid - or just up and away from your face. It'll help keep you cooler in the long run and let the mom get a good look at you. Make up for your updo with a pair of conversation-starting earrings or necklace. Accessorize even further with bangles, bracelets and/or rings. And be sure to use sunscreen. The last thing you want to do is feel the burn from the outdoor outing days after.

Plan to take a cardigan with you in the event that it gets cooler at night. Leave it in the car until you feel it necessary to put on. The key is to create an outfit that looks effortless and pulled together all at once, never letting on to how many times you actually changed your mind, or outfit.

Once you've decided on what to wear just go there and be yourself. Let your sparkling personality shine through. Or as Katy Perry would say:

You just gotta ignite the light

And let it shine

Just own the night

Like the Fourth of July

Cause baby you're a firework!

Need sartorial advice? Email me: Dwaun@shoppingsavage.com

Rock 'N' Roll Out for Fashion

From the dawning of rock 'n' rolls popularity in the late 1960s, music and fashion have been intermingling. During the summers, people are ready to let loose and sway to the rhythms of their favorite artists. Because of this, there are concerts and music festivals all over the world that bring an assortment of people, culture and fashions together. The problem is many of us want to stay trendy and cool during these hot and crowded concerts so the question is: what do you wear? Here is a look at some celebrities rocking the festival scene attire and where you can get similar looks.

Kate Bosworth is no stranger to the music scene and after being spotted at the Coachella Music Festival this summer, she definitely has an element of “hippie-chic” to her style. She tends to go for lightweight fabrics to stay cool and comfortable.

Here is a dress similar to the one she is wearing in the middle picture from Banana Republic.

Diane Kruger, Joshua Jackson, Ian Somerhalder, and Nina Dobrev (t to r) also attended the Coachella Festival this summer. Although their looks are very different (Diane doing more of a resort look where as Nina is more sporty with a pair of sneakers), they are both wearing soft cotton black tank tops that look great with what they're wearing.

This tank top from Forever 21 is a great summer closet staple. The complete outfit on the model would be great to wear all day.

Vanessa Hudgens is definitely channeling the 70’s with this outfit. The sheer pants convey a relaxed yet stylish look.

A good alternative to those pants is a long printed skirt by Joie from Shop Bop. It's similar to the pant not only because of its print but also its overall relaxed aesthetic.

Joe Jonas was spotted at the Coachella Festival as well this year and this rocker look is perfect for any guy wanting to attend a music festival. Layering makes it easier for you to go from day to night with ease.

This jacket from Banana Republic is similar to the one above in that it can go from music festivals to a date night on the town.

Here is a list of accessories that festival goers should have to make the experience that much more enjoyable:

ONE by Collina Strada is a great bucket bag. It can carry a multitude of items and looks fit to be carried to a festival.

These Jeffrey Campbell boots will look great with shorts, skinny jeans, or a summer dress.

K. Jacques make these gladiators and their neutral color can be paired with just about any summer ensemble.

Converse Allstars have been around for decades and are still a great sneaker to have in your closet because of their comfort and cool appeal. These shoes can be great for guys and girls at a concert or just to own for their versatility.

With these suggestions you will be able to stay cool and comfortable in the summer months while listening to your favorite artists live.

Long live Peace, Love, Fashion & Rock 'n' Roll.

Follow Hallie on twitter

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

My husband has a job interview coming up. It is the middle of summer and super hot outside. He is a business professional. What do you recommend men wear on a professional job interview during the summer? Is it appropriate to just wear a shirt, tie, and pants? Or, should he wear a jacket too? Are separates okay? Or, should he wear a suit? Help!

Signed,

Suited for Summer

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Dear S.F.S.,

The summer heat shouldn't deter your husband from wearing a suit on his interview, just a suit made of wool - cashmere, tweed, flannel, etc., polyester or any other synthetic material. And this is true for all professional men. Suits made from the aforementioned materials should be put away for warmer weather and lighter weight suiting should be worn to manage looking cool in a suit during the sultry summer months.

One of these suits would work well for any interview he has, in their respective order. For example, he may want to start out by looking at navy suits made of cotton for the best breathability and versatility as far as interviewing is concerned. If you happen to come across a cotton/linen blend, be sure that the cotton percentage outweighs the linen so that it won't wrinkle as easy.

The next viable option, the khaki suit, is a little on the unconventional side for interviewing, but paired with the right accessories and his individuality could be what separates him from the pack - and in a good way. The first inclination may be to incorporate black shoes, briefcase and tie, but a great pair of chocolate brown oxfords, coordinating bag and belt would really compliment this suit well.

Only if he knew he were a shoe-in for the job would it be recommended to wear something deemed as casual as a seersucker suit. Once he has the job he can feel confident in wearing this to work - preferably with a pair of suede bucks - but not for an interview. Not even for any follow up interviews.

Separates (such as a navy blazer with khakis) work for entry level positions or again, as an option for work once he has the job, but may not send the strongest cohesive message to his potential future employers.

If he doesn't have any of the aforementioned suits at his disposal - nor the disposable income to invest in one of quality - then his darkest suit, i.e. black, would be his next, albeit, last option. Just note that if 5-minutes early is considered on time, he may want to show up 10-minutes early just to find a bathroom and have a chance to cool down/give himself a once over. Its true what they say: in business, never let 'em see you sweat.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: Dwaun@shoppingsavage.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I am a 44-year old single mother of three girls who was blessed with a great post babies body. In fact, having kids gave me a great set of "twins" and a few more curves that I didn't have before. But as my children get older they are telling me I dress too sexy. I think at my age if you've survived a divorce and raised three girls if you still got it, flaunt it!

I like to wear low cut tops, tight dresses and stilettos because I feel sexy so I want to look sexy. Some of my friends have told me this is what's holding me back from a career in entertainment but again, I've met so many people in the industry - a lot of men especially - who I believe wouldn't have given me a second look if I didn't wear revealing clothing. So my question is who should I believe, my friends and family who think I dress too provocatively or just own it? And if they're right, what can I wear to appear less sexual but still look and feel sexy?

Signed,

Sexy Mom

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Dear S.M.,

Despite your sexiness, it sounds like your closet is unbalanced. There is a time and place for every outfit and without age-appropriate clothing the perception you're giving off is counterproductive, especially if you are legitimately trying to break into the entertainment industry. With that said, you could probably stand to have a makeunder.

Take a girlfriend and/or your daughters with you shopping with the intention of finding age-appropriate/business casual wear for your future dealings with your entertainment contacts. If you're really serious about breaking into the industry, then you'll have to rely on something other than your looks to get you past the velvet rope.

And toning it down doesn't mean you have to be completely covered up. Your clothing can still be body conscious but if the dress is low cut, then it should at least be knee length. If the dress is above the knee then try to cover up the "twins" for the sake of leaving something to the imagination. But again, these are the "time and place" pieces that should only be worn when you aren't trying to impress upon someone your desire to break into an industry that hundreds of women dressed similarly to you, who are using the same line as you, but only to finance their Mrs. degree.

As a single mother of three girls you most certainly don't want your daughters growing up to believe that they need to dress a certain way to get ahead in life. There's a certain je ne sais quoi about a woman who knows she's sexy and conveys that sex appeal through her actions and energy and doesn't rely on the obvious.

Dressing for success instead of, well, sex will get you further along than you think. And I'm sure your daughters will be proud of their mom for the change.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: Dwaun@shoppingsavage.com

Going to the Chapel, as a guest, in Style Pt. 2

Last week, we discussed how a women should dress for three types of weddings: formal, cocktail, and destination. And this week, as promised, we're discussing the same for the fellas. What's great about a man's styling for weddings is that no matter the location, you have a standard suit blueprint to go by, but you can play with patterns and materials so you can stand out and look every bit as fashionable as your female counterparts.

Formal

For a formal summer wedding, you can lighten up a bit - at least in color - and give a navy blue suit a try. It’s a great twist on a classic black suit and it looks equally as good. It definitely gives off the stylish vibe but is still appropriate for the setting.

Ludlow two-button suit jacket with double-vented back and pant in Italian cotton

piqué

, J. Crew

Cocktail

For the unconventional wedding, try a khaki suit. Whether it's being held at an event space or a restaurant, this suit will definitely catch any bridesmaid’s eye. Another advantage to owning a khaki suit is that it can be used for multiple occasions later down the road and even worn separately.

Ludlow two-button suit jacket with center vent and pant in Italian Chino, J.Crew

Destination

A destination wedding is almost always the most relaxed, so a seersucker suit will be just the touch of casual style you want to convey. The material has great breatheability for an outdoor ceremony held on the beach or in a rustic setting. And yet again, this is one of those suits that can be used as a whole or worn as separates.

Ludlow two-button suit jacket with center vent and pant in seersucker, J.Crew

With these ideas, you'll be able to attend weddings this season in style and in step with the location. And no matter the venue or suit, be sure to accentuate with an unexpected pop of color - be it your pocket square, tie, socks or even cuff links. It's the subtle things that'll add polish and pizazz to your look.

Follow Hallie on twitter

Going to the Chapel, as a guest, in Style Pt. 1

Every year around this time men and women alike get invited to one of the most important events in their friend's lives: their wedding. And with the invitations come the scramble for what to wear. Typically, the type of wedding determines that, but the range for women can extend beyond the odds of catching the bouquet. For this weeks trend report, I will break down the most common types of weddings and give you ladies an idea of what's appropriate to wear to each. (But don't fret fellas, next week its all about you!)

Formal

Most formal weddings are held in a church or holy sanctuary so your best bet is to choose something knee length and dare it be said, conservative. This is not to say that you shouldn't choose something that makes a fashion statement, but make it subtle and classy. Try to channel the likes of first ladies Jackie Kennedy and Michelle Obama.

Antonio Melani “Piano” Dress, Dillards

Cocktail

For those of our friends who embrace the idea of a "nontraditional" wedding, you still want your dress to be appropriate for the big day, even if said nuptials are being held at a museum, warehouse or even the restaurant they had their first date. One problem you may encounter is that with this type of wedding the bridesmaids dresses could have a very cocktail feel so if you have the opportunity, ask someone in the wedding party what they're wearing to have a better idea of what style would be appropriate.

Jones New York Shutter-Pleat Dress, Dillards

Destination

This type of wedding is usually set someplace tropical or held in a large outdoors area. What’s great is that unless specified, there is no specific look to cater to when getting ready. But that doesn't mean you should just throw caution to the wind when looking for a dress to wear. Look for something flirty and fun - like the nature of the wedding! - but still has that air of sophistication. After all, you want still want to look like you've shown up to a wedding.

Donna Morgan Strapless Dress, Dillards

These are just a few of the general types of weddings that you might encounter while on the wedding circuit this season. But whatever you decide to wear, always remember to resist the urge to wear white! The bride should have her day - and color - to herself!

Follow Hallie on twitter

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I am currently pregnant with my first child and while the excitement and preparation of being a mommy is all-consuming, I'm very concerned about maintaining my personal sense of style as my belly is ever-expanding. I've seen women in maternity clothes (i.e. circus tents) and that look just isn't me! I want to embrace the belly! How do I develop my maternity look for work and for play: (1) without breaking the bank and (2) with absolutely NO MUUMUU dresses?

Signed,

Maternity Wear for Blossoming Baby Bump

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Dear M.W.F.B.B.B.,

Just because you're "with child" doesn't mean you have to be without style. Maternity wear has come a long modern way since the days of women being relegated to wearing muumuu's for any reason other than channeling Mrs. Roper from Three's Company.

As your pregnancy progresses you're going to want to invest in a few key pieces of maternity wear - two pairs of maternity jeans, two pairs of maternity work pants, four to six maternity tank tops - and/or a belly band - and solid colored maternity tops as you progress throughout your pregnancy. Escape the higher cost of maternity wear by looking at the sales sections first. Even if its a little larger than you are at that time, you can tell if you'll grow into it. Also, if its something you like you should get it so as you to continue to expand your family from the inside out you'll have new affordable baby-on-board clothing to look forward to wearing. Not only will this help you evade the feelings of "I'm pregnant and nothing fits" but it will work as an overall confidence booster if you're ever feeling at odds with yourself and your bodies changing landscape.

Look for maternity tops - or dresses - that appeal to your sense of style and work with your current wardrobe accessories. Go for jewel-toned tops and dresses that will pop against your skin tone and will add to your growing glow. A statement necklace, pair of earrings or bangles and bracelets will help draw attention away from your midsection and back to you. Even shirts or dresses that show off your cleavage or décolletage will draw the attention back to you and not your pregnancy.

So you see, you can move into maternity and avoid muumuu-ing. The closest you may come to a loose, body skimming dress would be in the form of an empire waist or halter dress which will be your friend once you start to reach your due date. This advice should help you keep your style while highlighting your pregnancy. The expression "you can have your cake and eat it too" comes to mind but in your case, you can have your baby and save the cake till after you've shed the post-baby weight.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: Dwaun@shoppingsavage.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,

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,

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

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

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 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