Spring.

Holly writes,

I have a basic black long sleeved shirt dress. It has side pockets and a tie belt. When I put it on and tie the belt it makes my bust look as if it is sitting low and my stomach shows. If I leave it with the belt hanging it looks sloppy. It was designed with this belt, what can I do to make this dress work on my short-waisted, pot-bellied body? Is there another way I can wear my dress?

Dear Holly,

No matter what it was designed to do it is now your dress and you can wear it to serve your purposes and showcase yourself. If the belt is fixed to the dress and looks fine in the back either pull the ends to the center back and tie them there or fix them together with a stitch or two. If this sash is not long enough cut the ends an inch or so longer than the side seams and tack them at each side. This should leave you a clean front view and the detail at the back. To keep the eye above your waist either slip a scarf under your collar and tie it at a level that suits you or add your choice of accessories.

A dress such as yours can definitely be worn every season and most times of day. You can wear it on its own with jewelry and it can also perform as a light coat when worn open over a dress or pants and a top.

Unbuttoned above the waist it can be worn over assorted tops to accommodate the season and the occasion. Sleeves can be left long or rolled to ¾. You will enjoy this dress so long as you make certain that you position it so that it flatters you and fits the occasion.

Sophie writes,

I have a print chiffon tunic. The back ground is orange and the print is mostly brown and several shades of green. I plan to wear this tunic to my cousin’s formal wedding. Ideally I would like to wear pants, is that okay? If so would orange pants be too much?

Dear Sophie

Your tunic can be worn with almost any bottom- straight or full legged pants or a short or long straight skirt. Take your tunic with you when you shop to ensure that the pant style you select flatters you.

As for the colour finding an exact match for your background colour may be a challenge.

To evaluate your colour scheme slip on the tunic and the bottom you like, look at yourself evaluate the full length mirror. If the overall effect looks pleasing you have your answer. If you cannot find a match to the orange, try brown or a green that compliments the print. Definitely pay special attention to your jewelry since your exotic colour scheme can be pulled together with just the right colour of bauble and bead. Once you have accomplished your mission you will be rewarded with a unique exotic evening look that will comfortably take you to the wedding and to other occasions as they arise. Enjoy!