Dear Daddy Likey: Dressing for Your High School Reunion

Dear Daddy Likey,

I recently received a Save the Date for my five year high school reunion in July, and I need a little assistance. In high school I was, in short, a loser. Not the like get-beat-up-for-lunch-money-and-had-hygiene-issues type of loser, but more the girl with a very insular group of friends that may or may not have dressed up like an elf for the Lord of the Rings premier.

I've left my Frodo days behind me. However, I know that my reputation probably has not faded all that much, due to a pointed lack of interaction with most of my graduating class. In fact, my sister works with a classmate of mine that I don't remember ever speaking to, and he recently asked her if I was still as weird as I was in high school.

My college years have left me with a wardrobe full of sweatshirts, t-shirts and bar shirts. None of these seem to echo the youthful yet sophisticated, psuedo-professional (gotta love this recession) woman I have become.

Please, please, please help me figure out a reunion-worthy outfit that will help me to break free from the chains of my nerdy past, as I fear that this whole event may turn into a straight to video Romy and Michele sequel.

Signed,
Frodo, Five Years Ago

Dear Frodo,

So, how unfair is the 5-year high school reunion? I mean, five years is not nearly enough time to heal old emotional wounds or accomplish anything that will make anyone jealous:

"So, what have you been up to?"

"Working at Starbucks and going to school."

"Oh yeah? Me too."

"Cool. Remember when you poured a bucket of pig's blood on me in front of the whole school?"

"Oh yeah! That was funny."

"No it wasn't."

More importantly though, a person's undergraduate college years is not exactly the phase of life when you're focused on amassing a wardrobe of good quality, chic-yet-professional clothing. As our dear Frodo says, it's a time of jeans, sweatshirts, and free t-shirts from bars near campus.

I’ve put together three outfit possibilities that I think you’ll be able to replicate with affordable pieces from places like Target, Old Navy, and Forever 21. But take my fashion advice with these words of caution that my mom imparted to me after her own high school reunion: "Guess what? The people who were dickheads in high school are still dickheads."

So don't try too hard to win over the dickheads--they're a lost cause. Just be your awesome self and see what happens. Good luck! And here's some style inspiration:

Vaguely Intimidating Professional Outfit for High School Reunion by daddylikeyblog featuring Coach shoes

I call this one the “I just came from my vaguely intimidating corporate job and didn’t have time to change but don’t I look fabulous anyway?” This look involves pretty minimal accessorizing, but focuses on great-fitting basics and colors. I'd be totally impressed if I saw a former Legolas-wannabe strut into the reunion wearing this outfit, wouldn't you?

Next up, we have a more formal option:

A Little More Formal by daddylikeyblog featuring Iisli jackets

This shows that you put some effort into looking good for the night, and wow do you clean up nice. I kept my example simple, because I think an outfit like this screams for some awesome personal accessories that come with brag-worth back stories. As in, "Oh, you like my earrings? I got them while studying abroad in Spain. I'm pretty cultured."

And finally:

Badass Reunion Outfit by daddylikeyblog featuring Bronx shoes

If I were gonna be really lame/clever I would title this outfit “Too Cool for School” or something like that. Basically, I think your third option is to just dress yourself up like a total badass and act totally nonchalant about the whole event. Then get burgers with your friends afterwards and shriek and giggle about how quickly the hot quarterback transformed into an Artie Lang lookalike.

How about you guys? Did you go to your high school reunion, or do you plan to go? What did you wear? And most importantly, were the dickheads from high school still dickheads?

Dear Daddy Likey: Jerk Lost. Weight Gained. Fashion Help Wanted.

Dear Daddy Likey,

So you know that shiny happy, best time of your life that's supposed to be the last year of high school? It kind of destroyed me. I gained 25 pounds and dated a giant jerk and my self esteem is a little shattered, even six months post grad. Naturally, I'm hoping shopping will fix this! Well, not exactly, I'm actually fine with the way my body is now, I'm a size ten-ish and the whole weight gain thing gave me boobs, something I'd just accepted had puberty had skipped over entirely. But none of my clothing fits very well anymore and it's making me hate a body that's actually pretty great. In short, after that long droning tangent, I kind of have a new shape to dress. And that's exciting, but I have no idea what looks good and how to go about anything.

Signed,
Finally Dumped Her Jerk Boyfriend and Would Like to Buy Pretty Things Now

Dear Finally,

Rock it out, sister! I'm so proud of you for dropping that jackass and being patient and positive with your body and yourself. Can I also just say that the best advice my mom ever gave me, besides "A good foundation is essential", was to tell me that high school is absolutely not the best time of your life, and in fact it is usually pretty unpleasant? For instance, just the other day a couple of girls I know were talking bad about people and being generally awful, and I thought, "Ugh, this reminds me of high school." I did not think, "Aww, this reminds me of that shiny, happy best time of my life!"

I swear that your life will get immeasurably better in the coming years. It sounds like it already has.

Now, onto the fashion advice! Rather than give you specific style tips, I focused on some broader ideas to help you shop for new clothes and feel better in the pieces you already have. Hope this helps, my dear:

Go to a store, and try on one of everything.

Do whatever you need to do to open your mind and get in a good mood, whether that means meditation or a brisk walk or a slice of food court pizza or psychedelic drugs (kidding!), but try to shed all your preconceived notions of what does or doesn't look good on you. Then, head to a store with flattering lighting and patient employees and force yourself to grab one of everything and take your haul into the dressing room. If you're shopping for denim, for example, grab bootcut jeans, wide-leg jeans, straight-leg jeans, skinny jeans, cuffed jeans, and cropped jeans. Grab dark denim, light denim, black denim, acid wash, tie-dye, destroyed, and pristine.

Vigoss patchwork stretch bootcut jeans, $39.90, Alloy

In the dressing room, forget every fashion rule you've ever learned (no small task, I know--at last count I had 14,376 fashion rules stored in my brain) and just look in the mirror. Do you like what you see? It's such a simple question, but we're often too distracted or confused or scared to give ourselves an honest answer. If you don't like something, think about the reasons why. If you love something, buy it (or take note of the style and find it cheaper somewhere else), even if it's something you thought would never, ever in a million years look good on you.

Who knows? You might end up falling in love with a pair of lime-green acid wash cropped skinny jeans. And that would be awesome.

Comfy is key.

When I'm feeling down and emotionally vulnerable, here are the top 3 things that make me feel better:

1. Bagel sandwiches
2. Ace of Base
3. Super-cozy shapeless blanket sweaters

While it's great to discover new clothing styles that flatter your shape and improve your outward appearance, it's also important to have a few pieces that make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. This could mean a grandpa cardigan or cashmere pants or a silk robe or all three at once, and who cares if you look silly?

Don't forget about that "good foundation" thing.

This is the most boring advice on the planet (sorry!), but definitely get a professional bra fitting if you haven't already. Most department store lingerie sections can measure you and help you find the right size. This will quite literally perk you (and your new boobs) right up.

Also don't forget about cute undies.

Set of 2 Panties, $15.50, GAP.

Throwing away a pair of old, rapidly deteriorating underwear and replacing them with a cute new pair = instant self-esteem boost. Honestly, some of my best therapeutic shopping trips have consisted of nothing more than driving to Marshalls and buying a pair of $3 pink polka-dot panties. It sounds trite, but wearing beautiful undergarments, especially if no one else is going to see them, is a reiteration that you--just you--are worth the effort.

Find fashion inspiration that makes you feel excited to carve out your own personal style.

This post might be a good place to start.

Readers, what advice do you have for this lovely young lass?

Dear Daddy Likey: Style in a Soggy State

Dear Daddy Likey,

I'm a high school senior in warm, sunny California, who will be going to college in cold...rainy....Washington state. I love rain, but I have very little to shell out on a new wardrobe. I'm a poor college student here! I need a glorious warm coat and some knee-length leather boots to keep out the rain... and I need to be able to afford it all. Any suggestions? Please and thank you.

Signed,
Soon-to-be-Soggy

Dear Soggy,

Congratulations on coming to the Pacific Northwest! I'm sure you'll like it here. Yes, it can be a bit damp, but the people are super friendly, the food is super tasty, and you can't say we don't appreciate a hybrid vehicle or an Obama bumper sticker.

Let's talk about the coat: Yes, you'll need a warm coat. Not as warm as you would need, in, say, Chicago, but it definitely gets chilly here. My favorite glorious warm coat is a wool peacoat. Some people might say this is a boring choice, but I say it's a classic, and there are so many variations and unique details that can set yours apart. Try one in a rich color, or with a belt, bold buttons, pretty lining, attached bedazzled cape, whatever. A peacoat goes with everything and will keep you warm and stylish--that's a Daddy Likey guarantee!

St. John's Bay Cashemere-Blend Classic Pea Coat, $99, here

For most of the cold/rainy months, you can get away with a fabulous, bright-colored rain coat with a warm sweater underneath, which I highly recommend. This one is adorable:

Puff Sleeve Rain Jacket, on sale for $44, here

An important note for Pacific Northwest* transplants: Buying a black North Face fleece jacket in Oregon and Washington is like 3 years of national military service in Israel: required, although exceptions may be made on religious, physical, or psychological grounds. I tried getting through my freshman year of college without one, and I think I made it three months before I cleaned out my savings account and procured one for myself. Yes, this was the same year I so easily caved to the baggy OSU sweatshirt craze, in addition to carrying on a 6-month flirtation with a guy in my French class because he offered to combine shipping costs on an order of Converse All-Stars, but still, I want you to know the North Face fleece pressure is there, and it's tremendous--be ready.

As for those leather boots, I think your best bet--if it doesn't gross you out--is to hit up some thrift stores and/or ebay. Cheap, cute, new leather boots are tough to find. Cheap, cute, vintage leather boots are not. And as a bonus, secondhand (secondfoot?) boots are already worn in, so your chances of becoming known as "limping bloody blister girl" around campus are less.

If you're set on a new pair, here are a couple semi-cheap options:

Clarks March Boots, $80-$192, depending on color and size, here

RSVP Billie Boots, $48, here

These are manmade material, but they're really cute and come in wide-calf sizes:

Naturalizer Scurry Boot, $72, here

Also, these are pretty badass.

And don't forget that if you're looking for cheap, waterproof, and eternally cheery (even on the dreariest of northwest winter days), you can't beat a pair of bright red rain boots:

RSVP, $10, here

*Wasn't sure if I should include British Columbia in the North Face fanatics category--does the obsession with expensive water-repellent fleece jackets extend across the border?

Help! I'm moving to France and I don't want to look gross!

Dear Daddy Likey,

I'm in a bit of a time crunch. You see, I'm going to France as an exchange student, for a year. I was originally going to leave in December, but circumstances have changed and I now have the opportunity to go... in a month. Besides all the paperwork (AHHHH!!!!) I have to do to apply for a visa, I was planning on updating my wardrobe for the trip. Since French people are all French... and awesome and fashionista-y, I feel like I will be completely uncomfortable and gross in my normal boxy t-shirt and jeans ensemble. I'm a rising Junior, and I'll be living in Southern France (you have permission to swoon.), and I am short on funds (it's a rather expensive trip). I would appreciate any tips, suggestions, or advice you have for me about what to wear, what to pack, and all that other fun stuff.

Merci beaucoup,
Foreign Exchange Faux Pas

Dear Foreign,

First things first: SWOOOOOOOONNNNN!!

Ahem, now that that's out of the way, here's my number 1 top advice: Traveling, even to idyllic, fashionable France, is not a good reason to drastically alter your style. Whenever I'm packing for a trip, I dig around in the back of my closet for my coolest, wildest clothes that I never wear in my normal life, convinced that "Traveling Winona" is cool enough to wear them. Upon arriving at my destination, I am horrified to realize that "Traveling Winona," doesn't actually exist, and "Regular Winona" is now stuck in an unfamiliar locale with a suitcase full of leopard print maxi dresses and 7-inch heels.

Traveling to idyllic, fashionable France is, however, a good reason to slightly alter your style, especially if you've been feeling insecure about your jeans and t-shirts. My advice: Mix up your wardrobe enough that you feel stylish and comfortable in this new place, but not so much that you feel like you accidentally grabbed the wrong suitcase from baggage claim.

Here, take a look at this photo:

image via Garance Dore

What are the first words that come to mind when you see this girl? Chic? Stylish? European? Fabulous hair? WHY THE HELL CAN'T I LOOK LIKE THAT WHEN I RIDE A BIKE??

Sorry. Still need to work on my cute-girl-on-a-bike jealousy issues.

The point is, this girl is basically just wearing a t-shirt and jeans. Sure, she has supermodel good looks going for her, but anyone could throw on an outfit similar to this and look comfortable and put together.

Here are a few tips to easily (and cheaply) tweak your t-shirt and jeans uniform to up your style quotient:

Choose the right t-shirt
There's a big difference between a boxy white t-shirt emblazoned with the date and location of your last family reunion, and a great-fitting t-shirt in a super flattering color. GAP has a bunch of colorful tees with pretty details on sale right now for, like, $2 each. Load up on a few of those in your favorite colors, and pair them with some cuffed jeans and big sunglasses.

Don't underestimate the power of cute shoes
If you've never been into wearing high heels, you might not want to start practicing amidst this month of frantic packing and bribing the state department to overnight your visa. Instead, try some chic ballet flats, some lower height heels, or more manageable wedges. Aim for the comfortable, stylish footwear middle ground between sneakers and platform stilettos.

Zinc "Eunice," $27.90, 6PM.com

Add a scarf
I wrote about this concept more in depth here, but seriously--want to know the only difference between a frumpy tourist and a chic Parisian? A scarf.

To summarize: You don't have to abandon your old style, just reinterpret it according to your new surroundings. And eat a lot of croissants. And read this, if you want to feel a little less intimidated.

Any lovely readers have other suggestions for our harried exchange student-to-be?

What To Wear To College

Dear Daddy Likey,

I'm going to college in the fall, and I was wondering what you think are the wardrobe essentials for a university student. I rely (probably too much) on lists to help me get through things like clothes shopping, and your opinions on what I (and other college students) should buy/bring as freshman would be awesome.

Signed,
Lusting for a List

Dear Lusting,

What a great question! I thought it best to break up my answer into two separate lists, one composed of "Ideal" recommendations--those pieces of clothing that a freshman would/should wear if all the stars lined up and she woke up on time and had any extra money to buy them and felt motivated at all to put them on--and then the "Reality" list, composed of the clothes that most college freshmen actually end up wearing. (Hey, no shame! Well, the pajama pants are definitely shameful, but we'll get to that in a second.)

I think you'll be most successful if you mix and match pieces from each list, according to your own preferences, budget, and the style at your university*. And remember, these are just some basic guidelines--college is the perfect time to experiment with your look, so don't forget to have fun with fashion!

*Of course, none of this advice applies to art students, those lucky academics who could wear a dress made of maxi-pads to a thesis presentation and see their credibility skyrocket. With a mix of jealousy and reverence, I salute you!

Let's get started:

Ideally: Blazer or Fitted Jacket

Seriously, get yourself a cute little blazer or jacket that fits you just right and makes you look put-together and professional. Even if your normal style is, like, workout pants and a ratty t-shirt, and you feel kind of weird buying and/or wearing a blazer, just do it, because let me tell you, college is a land of opportunity, and many of these opportunities (academic panel, dream job interview, class presentation, etc.) call for a cute little blazer.

Sashimi Boyfriend Blazer, on sale for $37.90, Nordstrom

Really, though: Hooded Sweatshirt with University Logo

I remember my freshman year, I loaded up my cheap dorm dresser drawers with a fairly impressive Carrie Bradshaw wannabe wardrobe--a vast array of tutus and lace camisoles and high heels--but after about a week it became clear that every single other person on campus (besides the art students, duh) stuck to a strict dress code of jeans, flip-flops, and baggy Oregon State University sweatshirts.

In a half-hearted attempt to fit in, I began pairing my tutus and heels with baggy OSU hoodies. Looking back, this was maybe not the best plan, but just be warned that, in America at least, the school logo sweatshirt is as ubiquitous in college classrooms as overpriced textbooks, torturous hangovers, and the word "hegemony."

________

Ideally: Your Favorite Pair of Jeans (and a nice pair, too)

Basically, the key to a satisfying college wardrobe is to have a stock of fairly simple, comfortable, flattering pieces that don't take a lot of effort but make you look pulled together and presentable. While it's totally fine to bust out your ripped denim a few times a week, try to bring/buy a pair of unquestionably nice jeans that can take you from the classroom to your after-school job to date night.

Truck Jeans Stretch Wide Leg Jean, $39.50, Alloy.com

Really, though: Pajama Pants

So, this one I do have a problem with. Going to college is awesome because you have the freedom to do a lot of things you never had the freedom to before, like enjoy seven square meals of chow mein per day, or tell people you grew up on a llama farm and your given name is "Aphid," or, yes, wear your pajama pants to school. And thus, thousands--perhaps millions--of college students use this newfound freedom as an excuse to wear zany penguin-print pajama pants to their History of Conflict in Palestine class, which is upsetting.

________

Ideally: A Simple Skirt or Dress

Get a simple skirt or dress in a really cozy fabric like cotton jersey, and I guarantee you'll find yourself slipping it on for classes, parties, study times, dorky field trips to the grocery store with your roommates, etc. It's a great, versatile piece that will take you far.

Madeleine Spaghetti Dress, $17.80, Forever21

Really, though: Teeny Tiny Gym Shorts

Many freshmen, upon realizing they can get real-life academic credit for classes like "volleyball," "walking," and "underwater basket weaving," find it hard to abandon their physical education clothes for their real clothes, no matter what class they're attending. I totally approve of being comfy for your classes (as long as being comfy doesn't involve pajama pants), but by your junior and senior year, unless you've decided to major in PE, try a cute skirt or some actual pants instead.

________

Ideally: A Button-Up Blouse

When I was a TA in a communications class my senior year, I met a student who was--how should I put this? Is there a Smashmouth lyric to describe it? Oh yeah!--not the sharpest tool in the shed. She wasn't stupid, but she definitely wasn't smart, you know? And yet, somehow this girl had a solid reputation for being one of the brightest students in the class, if not the entire university, if not the entire universe. How did she cultivate such an epic rep? Well, while most of her classmates shuffled into class wearing ripped jeans, ironic t-shirts, and flip-flops, this girl strutted in everyday wearing a crisp button-up blouse and tailored slacks. She looked smart and successful, and therefore consistently received grades, respect, and accolades to match. Take note, incoming freshmen!

Sandra Ingrish Stripe Pintuck Blouse, $44.90, Nordstrom

Really, though: A T-Shirt

You'll probably end up throwing on a cute T-shirt most days, which is totally fine, but keep that button-up blouse and blazer handy--you never know when you might need them!

________

Ideally: Comfy, Versatile Flats

Most freshmen don't have cars (although if you do, man you're gonna be popular), so your first year of school will inevitably involve a great deal of walking. Comfortable shoes are imperative. Cute, comfortable shoes are highly recommended.

Blowfish Segment Tie Dye Flats, $44.50, Delias.com

Really, though: Flip-Flops

Freshmen dutifully buy a new pair of flip-flops to avoid the horrifying fungal infections lurking in the dorm showers, then end up wearing them every day for 4-5 years.

________

Some extra ideas for you cute lil' list addicts:

• Fabulous sunglasses
• Cozy slippers
• Black leggings (great layering piece)
• Slouchy cardigan
• Approximately 1000 ribbed cotton tank tops
  
• Knit beanie
• A cashmere sweater (for glamorous lounging purposes--find one at the thrift store!)
  
• Nerdy glasses
• A few different colors of tights
  
• A nice leather belt
• Boots
• Colorful scarves
  
• Little black dress (cliche, but priceless)
• Jewelry, jewelry, jewelry!
  

I'd love to hear other suggestions from readers! What were your wardrobe essentials as a bright-eyed young freshman? What did you wear that you wish you didn't? What didn't you wear and wish you did?

Dear Daddy Likey: What To Wear When It's Hot

I've received a number of emails in the past couple months from readers wanting some tips on how to dress in hot weather. It's slightly hard for me to relate right now, since Oregon has been having an almost eerily chilly summer, and I've mentioned before that my go-to hot weather outfit is a rumpled tanktop, jean shorts, and a lot of whining.

Even so, for you, dear readers, I'm happy to offer my top 3 tips for looking cool when it's hot (have you ever heard that clever little turn-of-phrase before? In every single fashion magazine's summer issue? Oh. Damn.).

Focus on the Fabric

Probably the easiest thing you can do to stay cool in your clothes is to choose pieces made of breathable, natural fabrics. I know this is much easier said than done (I usually buy things solely because they're pretty, only to get them home and realize they're a poly/steel wool blend), but it makes a world of difference. My friend Rachel has always been really good about choosing comfy, natural fabric clothes, and now she's a successful artist in the superhot city of LA. Coincidence? No way.

Think cotton tees and dresses, and breezy silky skirts:

The Fade Away Tee, Alternative Apparel, $30
(Gap also has a similar style in a bunch of colors for a bit less cheddah)

The Tess Dress, Modcloth, $30

Silk/cotton blend skirt, Forever 21, $17.80

Cut Off Your Pants

I'm so excited that cutoffs are so on trend right now, because if I was going to sing a personalized version of "These Are a Few of My Favorite Things," it would go like this:

Ice cream with sprinkles and Jet Li fight scenes
and constantly cutting up all of my jeans
into cute cutoffs with frayed hanging strings
These are a few of my favorite things!

Yes, cutoffs rank among kung fu movies and colorful frozen treats as my top life obsessions. When it gets warm I end up cutting every single one of my long pants into shorts, which is foolish, but I definitely recommend a less extreme approach to these DIY summer staples.

And please do Do It Yourself--designers are offering frayed cutoffs at all different price points right now, but it's so much better (and cheaper) to grab a pair of old pants or hit the denim racks at Goodwill and then cut them off yourself. This allows you to choose the most flattering length of short for you, from supershort to knee-length, and brag incessantly afterward that you made them. Lately I've been stealing worn out jeans from my brother and rockin' the baggy man shorts look. It's really comfy and perfect for hot weather.

Simplify (a little)

As much as I love the warm weather look of shorts and a tanktop and a vest and 30 necklaces and a stack of bangles and a thick headband and some slouchy boots, by the time you've finished putting on all those accessories, you might as well have climbed into an oven. On really hot days, go for simple combinations like a jersey dress and braided belt, or a pretty, flowy top and some cutoffs, or a floral skirt and a plain tanktop. This girl's got the idea:

Look how excited she is! Woohoo!

Orlee Knit Dress, $34.50, Delias

And for some great hot weather makeup tips, check out this post from Apocalypstick Now.

Dear Daddy Likey: I'm a Wannabe WASP on a budget!

Dear Daddy Likey,

I am in desperate need of some work wardrobe help!

This summer, I have been 'promoted' at the country club I work in- I have moved from waitress to golf shop girl! Along with a fifty cent raise, I also get to organize the shop, make charts with magic markers and flirt with all of the rich country club boys. JOKE'S ON THEM, because I would do that for free.

But enough of showing off! Because the real problem is that while I don't have to wear the ugly blue uniform shirt (gag!), I still have to wear country-club appropriate clothing. Apparently I get to buy clothing from the shop at cost, but I'm pretty sure that just rotating the same shirt in pink, orange and white isn't going to be fulfilling.

So how do I dress as a ritzy shopgirl WASP on a smallish budget? I think I have about one polo shirt, and one pair of white pants. I'm sure there will be a requisite pair of khakis in there, but I'm more of a florals and wrap skirts kind of a girl, so any advice you'd have would be wonderful!

Sincerly,

Wannabe WASP

Dear Wannabe,

I'll do my best to answer your question, but I have to admit that as the child of west coast hippies, the extent of my knowledge of WASP culture comes from the Friday night dinner scenes at Lorelai's parents' house on Gilmore Girls. Plus this one time in DC I got a random one-night job of keeping drunk country club types away from Whoopi Goldberg at a ritzy dinner party, but that's another story for another time.

I thought your question was a good one to publish though, because while we're not all so lucky as to be golf shop girls, most everyone struggles with translating their personal style to workplace dress codes. In your case, it sounds like you normally like to dress very soft and feminine, but your work environment is very "boxy polo shirt." To bring softness and femininity into your work life, you could hum Jason Mraz ballads all day, or you could try out some of these soft, feminine, WASPy options (or maybe do both):

A Twist On the Polo Shirt with Pretty, Flattering Details

"Gather at the river" top, $39.99, here

This has many of a polo's defining features--the collar, buttons, and short sleeves--but its girly shape and pretty details are perfect for a ritzy shopgirl. Wear with slim, cropped black slacks, a sparkly necklace, and bright shoes and you've got it goin' on, girlfriend.

Fabulous, Feminine Accessories

The absolute best way to sneak your personal style into your work wardrobe is with accessories. Back in the day my boyfriend worked at Starbucks where the dress code is pretty restrictive, and I thought there was no way around the harsh black, white, and khaki parameters (he once got sent home for wearing black pants with a dark grey pinstripe so subtle you'd need a government-funded microscope to see it), but today when I go see my friend Brittney working there, she's so decked out in gorgeous earrings and necklaces and shimmery eye shadow that she might as well be dining with distinguished foreign diplomats instead of spilling shocking amounts of soy milk on herself. Same company, same dress code--the only difference? Brittney rocks the personalized accessories. My boyfriend, perhaps understandably, did not.

A few options to start you off:

Red poppies scrabble tile pendant necklace, $6, here

Lilac flora wrist cuff, $9.50, here

This one's even called "country chic"! $5, here

I couldn't answer a question about country club style and not mention headbands, could I? Seriously, if you buy nothing else to augment your one polo shirt and pair of white pants, buy a few headbands in pretty prints and colors. It'll be enough.

Colorful, Cheerful Shoes

"Fancy" by rsvp, $17.14, here

If your office dress code doesn't include "boring black closed-toe shoes," which is the sad reality for so many, exercise your footwear freedom and wear exciting bright blue open-toe shoes instead! When they only cost $17, you really have no excuse. Freedom isn't free, you know.

Do I have any real WASPs buzzing around in the audience today, aching to dispense some (affordable) fashion tips? Former ritzy shopgirls with tried and tested advice? Anyone just want to talk about how much they miss Gilmore Girls? Because I'm always down for that too.

Dear Daddy Likey: Strapped for a Strapped Prom Dress

Dear Daddy Likey,

It seems like all "prom" dresses I like are strapless, and I don't do no straps. Perhaps it is because I am self conscious of my chest size, but whenever I dare strapless those two just seem to be too out of control and wild if you catch my drift.

When my school does prom it is a lot more clubby in that it is at a club and for the most part no one wears long floor length dresses.

I want something cute and vintage that is hip and formal enough but still fun. Like Katy Perry but more fabric?

Signed,
Strapped for a Strapped Dress

Dear Strapped,

Searching for dress options for you, I had to wade through what seemed like thousands of dresses without a strap in sight, so I totally understand your frustration. I also understand your preference for straps: The few times in my life I've dared to go strapless I've been pulled over by the police and asked if I had a permit for those things (I don't). In addition, I once witnessed the tragic and rapid descent of a strapless top from my friend Carolyn's bosom in the middle of the dance floor of a seedy club called The Meat Market. Hopefully your prom will not be held at The Meat Market.

I found a few options for you that I think meet your parameters of cute, retro, Katy-Perry-esque prom dresses with straps; and priced around 50 bucks and under, for good measure:

Brooch polka dot halter formal, $39.99, gojane.com

How cute and retro and fun is this one? Imagine it with high heels and a killer updo, and wow if you're not Katy Perry with more fabric and more style!

Floral belted dress, $46, alloy.com

A little less conventional, a little less formal, but definitely gorgeous, hip, and accommodating of supportive undergarments.

Greta dress in stretch satin, $58.00, pinupgirlclothing.com
Total. Bombshell. Love it. (Although if you'd like to look a little less bombshell-ish, you could put a cute lace camisole under that plunging neckline.)

Speaking of bombshell...

Shirred v-cut formal, $50.99, gojane.com

I love the color and the flattering cut of this dress. Also comes in pink and black.

Sequin racerback dress, $35, forever21.com

Cheap dresses with sequins are always a good choice because they leave shiny little trails indicating your whereabouts. If you were to get separated from your friends at The Meat Market, for example, they could just follow the trail of black sequins to the bathroom, where you would be hiding and praising Jesus that you decided to wear a dress with straps.

Also check out eBay, thrift shops, affordable vintage boutiques, and discount stores like Marshalls and TJ Maxx. I swear you'll find some supercute dresses, straps included, and you'll be the belle of the ball!

Dear Daddy Likey: Cold Bodies, Hot Shoes

Dear Daddy Likey,

I have an unusual work situation. I am a funeral director, which means my work wardrobe is pretty limited to mostly black and depressingly conservative. Unfortunately, I have a penchant for shoes. Colorful shoes, high heeled shoes, flats, boots, I just love fun shoes. My work shoes however, need to get me through a day that may include embalming, tromping through cemeteries, and removals of the deceased from hospitals (there is something a little empowering about seeing the security guard's eyes go wide as you lift a very heavy man onto a cot in heels without flinching).

ARE there shoes that can survive a mortuary life? Or will I be doomed to sensible shoes in stark black for the rest of my career? Help!

Sincerely yours,
Funeral Fashionista

Dearest Funeral Fashionista,

First of all, I have to say that this was one of my favorite Dear Daddy Likey inquiries I've ever received. I'd never really thought about the merits of looking sassy while lifting a dead man, but now that you mention it, I totally agree: fun shoes are a must!

I can't really explain why, but my first instinct was to direct you to Fluevog, because the styles are undeniably fun, they're good quality, and look super comfy. Beautiful blogger Sally often sings the praises of Fluevog and look how fabulous she looks:

Ready to tromp through a cemetary! (Sal, you should definitely take that as a compliment.)

Unfortunately, I have never actually worn this brand myself, so I decided to interrogate my friend Sarah, an avowed Fluevog Fan, and see if she could vouch for their comfiness. Our IM conversation is as follows:

Me: Sarah!
Sarah: winona!!
Sarah: it has been forever
Me: I know!
Sarah: i was just advertising your blog to all of my friends!
Me: Did I really interrupt you in the process of blog promotion?? GET BACK TO DOING THAT
Sarah: hahaha no im slightly exaggerating, i was shamelessly advertising yesterday
Me: ok, well good work! i have a question for you
Sarah: yes?
Me: you are a fan of john fluevog shoes, right?
Sarah: oh yes!
Me: how many pair do you have?
Sarah: oh jeez! i dont even know. i have...at least four. my favorites of course are the lime green boots
Me: oh yeah those are SO cute!
Sarah: and they have hearts for heels! i was walking around in the snow making little heart prints
Me: so, are these shoes comfortable?
Sarah: yes definitely
Sarah: well, compared to other fancyflashyfashiony shoes anyway
Sarah: i mean not compared to like loafers or whatever
Me: lol of course
Sarah: but they're pretty squishy and they dont pinch or rub me at all, and they tend to have good toes, not too pointy
Sarah: and good solid heels, not too thin, which is why i can walk in them haha
Me: so i'm gonna list a few situations where you might wear your fluevogs. could you please answer yes or no to indicate if they would be a comfortable shoe choice for the situation?
Sarah: sure
Me: 1. a day of shopping with your lovely sister
Sarah: of course!
Me: 2. waiting tables
Sarah: hm. I'd go with probably not
Me: Interesting. OK, what about moving a corpse?
Sarah: i guess that depends how far you're moving it, but most likely comfortable
Me: lol Sarah this is why i love you.
Me: you don't even miss a beat when i ask if a shoe would be comfortable for moving a corpse

There you have it, folks: Proof that Fluevogs would be comfortable corpse-moving footwear, and that my friends should probably work on being more suspicious.

Here are some specific sassy shoe suggestions. I went for closed toe, not-too-high heels and fun details:

Look up "sassy" in the dictionary and you'd probably find a picture of these. Add them to a somber black ensemble and watch every security guards' eyes widen within a mile radius.

"Helen," $109, here

These are a little spendier, but come on! They look like little bat shoes! Totally goth sexy.

"Lady Ophelia," $179, here

How gorgeous would these boots be with some dark lace tights?

Love the color and bouncy-looking heel.

"Lover," $255, here

These are pretty amazing too. And be sure to check out ebay if you like the shoes but not the price!

Any suggestions from the audience for comfy, cute mortician-approved shoes?

Dear Daddy Likey: I can't find a damn dress!

I received these two reader questions via email at around the same time:

Dear Daddy Likey,

I'm 18 years old and going to a benefit for an organization that helps emerging young playwrights, and I can't find a dress online that I like, or that fits my needs. I haven't worn anything shorter then a three quarter length sleeve since a few summer's ago, and so I need a night-time dress that would also work with a cardigan/long sleeved top and tights. You probably would rather do something much more exciting then give me ideas, but since we have a similar style and body shape and you are a hilarious genius, I figured you would be the girl to help me out. Oh, and I'd need it to be fairly cheap. Girls got needs.

Signed,
Short-Sleeved Shakespeare

and

Dear Daddy Likey,

I’m in a bit of a dilemma. I’m being forced to go to my high school’s winterfest dance, and I haven’t any idea in the slightest as to what to wear. I went to homecoming in a fringed pale pink dress by H & M, and, as much as I loved it, it was hardly figure-flattering, and not exactly a proper dress for the occasion. Winterfest is generally just a colder version of Homecoming or Prom (instead of the customary football game no one goes to with Homecoming, there's a basketball game no one goes to). I'm thinking I have a rectangular figure, but perhaps it's a cone...I can't really tell...Could you give me a few tips?

Signed,
Rectangle, or Perhaps Cone

Dear Shakespeare and Cone,

I thought I could group these two queries together because both of you are adorable teenage readers in need of formal dresses, and since one of you has a similar body shape as me, and my body shape could also be described as a rectangle, or perhaps a cone, I think this pairing will work out swimmingly!

I was actually out shopping today, and tried on a few dresses, and let me tell you: I hate shopping for dresses. I've realized that my problem is that since I'm so thick in the middle, wearing one piece of fabric makes me look like this rectangular mass, instead of a perfectly normal non-mass with legs, waist, and chest. I'm not sure if you guys are experiencing the same issue or if I'm the only mass around these parts, but here are some ideas for you, regardless:

Something like this would be so great for an emerging playwrights benefit--doesn't the model look just like a young tortured writer? This is something I would have worn when I myself was an 18-year-old tortured writer, so I can vouch for its authenticity. Other bonuses: it has sleeves, but the lace keeps them delicate instead of bulky, it obviously looks fabulous with tights, and you could totally wear it again with a slouchy cardigan and some flats.
Velvet Torch Lace Party Mini Dress, $54, nordstrom.com

I think this dress (or something like it) would be fantastic for both occasions:

The color is a stand-out, and the ruching across the waist is super flattering. It would work on its own or with a cardigan and tights, and can you believe it's from Sears??
Trixxi Ruched Glitter Dress, $79.99, here. If that price is a bit steep (seriously, WTF, Sears?), look for similar styles on ebay or at stores like Marshalls and TJ Maxx.

Completely Gratuitous Sidenote: I can't mention Sears without telling you about the time I was at a group job interview with a girl who used to work at Sears, and the interviewer asked us all to give an example of a time where we had a problem with a coworker and how we solved it. This girl told a story about how one of her coworkers was in a really bad relationship so she offered to let the coworker move into her apartment, on the condition that she stop seeing her asshole boyfriend, so the coworker moved in and they became best friends, but then she found out that the coworker was actually still doin' the nasty with the asshole boyfriend, so they got in a big fight and the Sears girl was like, "You can just HAVE my apartment, cuz I don't want it anymore, bitch!" and moved in with her mom, and this story went on for like fifteen minutes as the rest of the applicants and the interviewer grimaced and laughed nervously and sank lower and lower into our chairs. Finally, the interviewer interrupted the Sears girl and asked, "Wait, so how did you solve this problem?" and the girl was like, "I didn't. I hate her and she stole my apartment. That's why I'm applying here."

Moving on...

LOVE this:

And not just because it's my favorite color.
London Times Satin Pleated Tie-Back Dress, $50, overstock.com

Another great option for formal occasions when finding a dress proves hellish: try separates. Just find a dreamy, dramatic skirt, like this one (which just sold for $20 on ebay!)...

(JC Penney also has a gorgeous purple one on sale for $50, here)

...And pair it with whatever feels comfortable and appropriate for the event. My young playwright might add a basic black sweater set and look absolutely dashing, while the lovely Winterfest attendee could try a sequined sleeveless top. The possibilities are endless, and dressing in separates can be easier and more flattering than scouring the earth for the perfect dress. I wore a poofy pink skirt and ruched brown tank top to my senior prom, and even though I eventually turned into a drink menu, it was a great outfit while it lasted.

Best of luck to you, and I hope you ladies have a lovely time at your prospective events!

Dear Daddy Likey: An Accidental Romp

Dear Daddy Likey,

I was just impulse purchasing at Forever 21, and I picked up what I thought were two cute dresses. Well, one dress is indeed very cute, and the other one turned out to be a romper--whoooops. Here it is:


It actually is pretty cute also, and I'm kinda glad I finally purchased a trendy romper, but I am not sure how to wear it. Should I do it with tights and heels for a night dancing? Could I wear it to class? Should I just save it for summer and romp around in it or whatever it is you're supposed to do in rompers?

Signed,
Ready to Romp (albeit by accident)

Dear Ready,

This is too funny! Just a couple weeks ago, I was talking to my friend Lindsay, and she said, "I bought this thing at Forever 21, it's like, a complete outfit in one, but it's shorts on the bottom. What is that called?" and I was like, "Umm..what?" and she goes, "There's a shirt, and it's attached to some shorts. What is that?" "A romper?," I said. "No!" "A jumpsuit?" "No, no, no, it's like, shorts that look like a little dress." "A skort!" I squealed. "No! Eerrgghh I don't know what it's called, but it's really cute!"

And then, half an hour later, she sent me a text. "A ROMPER! It's a ROMPER!"

So you see, dear Ready, you're not the only one perplexed and enchanted by this saucy little romper.


Now, how to style it: while summer romping comes easy (hmm...that sentence came out more sexually charged than intended), working a romper into a winter wardrobe is a bit more intimidating.

Here's the best tip I can give you--pretend your romper is a cute dress, and proceed accordingly. Heck, for awhile you actually believed it was a cute dress, so this shouldn't be too difficult.

Cool hosiery is a must for winter romping. Have I mentioned my enduring love for colorful tights from We Love Colors? Oh, I have. Well, to reiterate: these are the best tights ever. Stock up on some eye-catching colors to pair with cute black and white dresses (hint: when I say "dress," I mean "romper!")--a rusty red color would be gorgeous.

I love the tights and heels idea for a night out dancing; also try some thick black tights and badass boots:

Ribbons and Bows Boots, $60 (enter code "blog" for 10% off!), modcloth.com

And since we're still pretending this romper is a dress, I'm gonna say heck yes, go for it, wear it to class! Try layering a long sleeve tee or a slouchy cardigan over it to make it a little more casual. Add some knit tights and ballet flats or small wedges and trust me, nobody will saying, "Who's the weirdo in the romper?" In fact, they might want to romp with you, and I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing.

Any romper enthusiasts out there, feel free to leave other tips in the comments! Would you wear it to class? And what are you supposed to do in a romper? If I had one, I think I would go clamming.