Dear Jeanne, What do you pack for a weekend getaway? And what do you wear while travelling? Christine   Dear Christine— Packing is certainly the name of my game: I’ve done so much traveling over the years, and the beat certainly goes on. Each time I haul out my suitcase, I immediately embark on a mental journey, imagining my impending …

Dear Jeanne, Most summer clothes in fashion magazines are too casual for the corporate environment I work in. I’m looking for a few ways to boost my business suits with stylish accessories or makeup. Can you steer me in the right direction? Lili   Dear Lili, Always remember this adage that I’ve subscribed to for years: “It’s not what you …

Dear Jeanne, Eating at a university cafeteria this past year has taken a toll: I’ve put on a little weight and my favourite dresses no longer fit. The bonus: a new, temporary summer wardrobe! What garments worth buying while I work on a yoga routine that will melt away the newfound pounds? Marsha Dear Marsha…. Most of us can relate …

Dear Jeanne, I find my partner’s casual footwear objectionable. To work (a creative job in a big city), he looks polished in slacks and shoes with no socks. On weekends, to brunch dates and errands with me, it’s flip-flops. How can I convince him to try something other than thong sandals? Marianne   Dear Marianne: A much as our own …

Of the many style mentors I’ve had, few have taught me as much about both glamour and practicality as Michael Kors. The red-hot design force is adamant that these two notions can indeed jive together in ways that are both exciting and terribly modern. All you have to do is use your imagination, and sometimes, throw caution to the wind. …

Jeanne Beker interviews Derrick Rutledge 2013 General talking points not transcribed: Jeanne and Derrick speak about Derrick’s demeanor and how he immediately connects to people His love of people, “everyone picks up on that at first meeting, I really, sincerely, love people. And that love comes out of me, it just comes out of my pores” On art of communication, …

The 1990s are back in a big way  – and I love it! How can I incorporate this trend into my wardrobe without looking like I just walked off the set of Blossom?   Amelia   Dear Amelia— Smart question. So many of us are victimized each season by certain retro trends that we’ve embraced before, but not clear on …

  Dear Jeanne, Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blah! I want a wedding with a white dress, but bridal conventions bore me. What are new ways to work old ideas into my day? Celine   Dear Celine: I like your spunk! There’s something to be said about the romance of tradition, but in this day and age, I’m …

  Dear Jeanne, Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blah! I want a wedding with a white dress, but bridal conventions bore me. What are new ways to work old ideas into my day? Celine   Dear Celine: I like your spunk! There’s something to be said about the romance of tradition, but in this day and age, I’m …

Ankle socks with open-toe sandals or wedge shoes: can I still wear the look this season or will I be out-of-date? -Antonia     Dear Antonia: I said it before and I’ll say it forever: Do not get hung up on whether or not a trend is “over” if you really love the look (and feel) of it. You also …

Ankle socks with open-toe sandals or wedge shoes: can I still wear the look this season or will I be out-of-date? -Antonia     Dear Antonia: I said it before and I’ll say it forever: Do not get hung up on whether or not a trend is “over” if you really love the look (and feel) of it. You also …

The cocktail short is a huge trend for spring. I can’t seem to convince myself that the look is appropriate for a grown woman. Should I bother? -Gloria Dear Gloria:   I find your question both intriguing and a little amusing: Before I answer, let me ask you: What do you mean by a “grown” woman? Do you mean an …

March 21 print Question: “Fashion week is here and I’m dressing up for the shows. I love wearing classic accessories like pearls but they can look too conservative-even matronly.  What are some fresh and fashionable ways to wear them?” -Caren DEADLINE: Friday, Feb 22 To accurately explain the etiquette of pearl-wearing, we must understand its history. Up until the 20th …

March 14 print Question: I love the thrill of a fashion deal. How do I stop buying cheap-and-cheerful items from stores like H&M and start buying investment pieces (especially from Canadian designers) without spending too much money? Where to start? -Jane Dear Jane: I know how hard it can be to resist a quick fashion fix, and I’m not suggesting …

“I would like to do as French fashion editors do and stop wearing makeup to work. My hair and clothing are always polished. Good idea? Bad idea?” —Aurelie   Dear Aurelie— Sounds like you’re ready for a big change. Make sure you ask yourself why. If you’re just looking to save a few minutes in the morning by doing away …

Question: How many trends are too many for one outfit? —Lisa   Dear Lisa: That’s a tricky question. First of all, no one really ever wants to look too “trendy”—but these days, just about everything out there seems to be trend-driven to some degree, whether it’s in the colour (i.e. Bordeaux is one of the hot colours of the moment) …

How can I wear Peter Pan-collar necklaces? They’re really cute, but I don’t think I have anything in my wardrobe that will work with it. Help! —Katherine   If you’re a fan of romantic, feminine, and simple accessories capable of making strong and memorable statements, you’re undoubtedly fond of the oh-so trendy Peter Pan collar necklaces that have been popping …

I have dark hair and am thinking of adding ombre highlights. Is that appropriate for a conservative workplace? Lauren   Dear Lauren:   First of all, let’s be clear that “conservative” is a fairly relative term: Your version of a “conservative workplace” may be very different from mine. But if what you’re craving is just a slight change—giving your hair …

I have dark hair and am thinking of adding ombre highlights or a little accent of red or blonde to liven things up. Is that appropriate for a conservative workplace? Lauren I hate basic black anything. How can I liven up my legwear with tights in the wintertime? Christine What’s an appropriate way to wear Peter Pan-collar necklaces? They’re really …

Dear Sonia— Since you’re a new mom, I can understand your feelings about not wanting to wear heels or dressy shoes most days. I’m sure you’re thinking it’s time to just be good to yourself, and get into a bit of an earthier groove, now that you’ve got a little one in your life to keep you on your toes. …