November 3, 2004
Ask Leah
Color Choices
Dear Leah,
Last spring, with all the bright colors in the stores, I couldn't find any clothes that looked good on me. What can I do when none of the colors work for me?
L.T.
Castle Rock, CO
Dear L.T.
You may have to search harder, but you can usually find something somewhere designed by someone who understands that we need more than two or three color options each season. Try stores you don't usually frequent. You may have to pay a little more and buy fewer items. If you absolutely can't find any clothing, plan on buying some accessories--small amounts of color that will work with your existing wardrobe. And remember to buy more than usual when your best colors are in fashion--in classic items made of season-spanning fabrices (tropical weight wool, cotton or rayon blends, silk, etc.) that you can wear year after year so you'll always have something in your closet that looks great on you.
Fortunately, you'll probably have enough choices this fall to make up for last season.Good hunting!
Leah
Sexy or Sleazy?
Dear Leah,
I'm full figured and look best in fitted clothing, but people imply that I'm showing off too much. How can I look sexy without looking sleazy?A. M.
Denver, CO
Dear A. M.,
You don't mention whether you're referring to work or social situations. However, in business situations, you might try semi-fitted clothing or fitted clothing that isn't too tight.
Remember the adage that "less is more." Leave something to the imagination. Showing too much skin isn't professional or businesslike, so it doesn't belong in the workplace. The real problem? It's distracting to other people when they're trying to work. Cleavage and short-short skirts are best left to off-hours and your social life--far, far away from your professional and business connections.
Your personal life is up to you, but keep in mind that you're always sending messages through what you wear. What kind of messages do you truly want to send? And what kind of responses are you hoping for? Only you know that, and only you are in charge of your image.
Leah
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