Advice / Ask BB

I'm going to 4 weddings this year, and I'm desperate to wear a bandage dress. I'm in college and cannot afford a Herve Leger dress but LOVE the look. Is there anywhere where I can find it for cheap? Or at least the style of the fit being that tight, but not in the trashy way. —Andrea

Here are six cute cheap dresses inspired by Herve Leger that won't break the bank. Click any image for shopping details!


1. INC International Colorblock dress, $99 at Macys.com

Continue reading "Ask BB: Herve Leger Bandage ... »

I recently received the following question from a reader: "I love glamorous nightgowns and PJs. (Think gowns and loungewear seen in classic Hollywood films.) Do you have ideas on where I might find such treats? —Sally in Dallas"

So to help me answer this question, I decided to consult my friend Miss Neira, author of the fabulous blog by the same name (http://missneira.blogspot.com/), as she is an expert on all-things lingerie…especially the glamorous vintage-inspired kind!

Here, Miss Neira shares her top vintage lingerie picks inspired by two classic Hollywood vixens, plus a list of her favorite online lingerie boutiques. Enjoy! —BB


The Marilyn
1. Di Murini Pajama Pant and Camisole (sold seperately)
2. Mary Green silk Georgette gown



The Rita
1. Francesca Satin Teddy
2. Fredrick's of Hollywood satin leopard gown


More sites for fun and playful sleepwear:

1. www.figleaves.com
2. www.marygreen.com
3. www.miodestino.co.uk/boutique
4. www.sleeknchic.com
5. www.agentprovocateur.com

Special thanks to Miss Neira for contributing this guest post!

I need your help finding a backpack or a laptop bag for college! I know this may seem silly, but I'm 5'1" so finding bags that are roomy, fashionable, but don't make me look like a ridiculous comic book supervillain is near-impossible. Messenger bags also tend to look a bit funny on me because I'm a bit busty. Any ideas? —S

Finding a stylish laptop bag is a challenge for any woman, regardless of height or body type, but it's not impossible! Here are some options:

Super Streamlined: One of the problems with most laptop bags is that they are heavy, bulky and cumbersome. Not cute. The solution: A slim, streamlined and lightweight bag that won't weigh you down, like the Rainebrooke Metro Lite Laptop Bag shown here. A padded shoulder strap adds additional carrying comfort while the bright pink design is fun and preppy-chic—perfect for students.

Rainebrooke Metro Lite Laptop Bag, $34.00



The Backpack: Yes, ladies, a fabulous option for carrying your laptop in style is a sleek, grown-up backpack. Backpacks evenly distribute weight, easing stress to your shoulders and back while allowing hands to be completely free. Plus, there's no awkward cross-body strap that may cause unwanted interference with the girls.

Mobile Edge Slimline Paris Backpack, $67.10 at amazon.com (also available in black leather)



Vertically Empowered: If you don't mind carrying a cross-body bag but worry about having a gigantic suitcase-like protrusion jutting from your slight frame, consider a laptop bag that orients your computer vertically, rather than horizontally. This shape will hang closer to your side and keep eyes moving up and down, visually elongating your silhouette.

Mango Tango Messenger Bag with Adjustable Strap, $39.99 at target.com


What advice would YOU share with your fellow readers? Have you found the perfect laptop bag that doesn't overwhelm a petite frame? What type of laptop bags do or do not work for the well-endowed? Share your expertise in the comments!

I need some advice on shoe choice for a tourist's trip to NYC. I am going in early February and the forecast should be cold and rainy. I plan to do a lot of walking and would like to find a shoe that is comfortable enough to walk in, durable enough to withstand any rainy conditions, yet stylish enough to go from day to night (nothing dressy, but possibly a Broadway show). Any advice? —Melissa

It might sound boring, but I think a classic black boot by a reputable brand is your best bet. Something classic yet modern will keep your feet comfy and cozy for a full day of walking, climbing subway stairs and trudging through rain puddles, possibly even slush and snow. And you'll look stylish and put together whether you're going to an art museum, shopping in trendy boutiques or catching a show in the evening. There are lots of options out there, but here are 3 picks under $50:


Aerosoles Archive Stretch Boot, $39.99 at amazon.com

I have always had luck with Aerosoles. Their shoes are super comfy and durable, and you can wear them for 8 to 10 hours at a time. These boots got great reviews, and it's easy to see why: Classic, versatile, tasteful. Check the Aerosoles.com outlet section for even more fab deals.


Unlisted by Kenneth Cole Women's 'Saddle Up' Tall Riding Boots, $47.99 at overstock.com

For something with less heel and more edge, these riding boots from Kenneth Cole's more affordable line, Unlisted, will keep feet happy for hours. Again, Kenneth Cole is another brand I've had excellent luck with, so you can shop with some certainty that you will not be disappointed by your purchase.


Bandolino Neeko, $47.37 at 6pm.com

I've owned a couple pairs of Bandolinos over the years and they have never failed me. If tall boots aren't your thing, a low black ankle boot like the ones shown here are another fab option. You can wear them with dark bootcut jeans and a cute top and blazer for a stylish day to night look. Feet will be dry and pain-free, which means you will be a happy traveler.

Dear Readers: What are some versatile, comfortable shoes YOU would recommend that would work for winter in New York City?

Would you please suggest an outfit for a long weekend getaway in Orlando, Florida? Something to explore Universal theme park in? I believe it's a bit chilly in Florida at the moment. —M

Parts of Florida have been experiencing unseasonably cold weather this winter, so I'd wear a trench and cardigan on the plane. These will keep you comfy should the sun decide to hide on your vacation.

Theme parks are notoriously casual but that doesn't mean you can't look cute. And there are plenty of nice restaurants, bars and nightclubs to entertain grownups in the evenings, so if you plan on going out, pack a cute top and dark jeans or black pants for such occasions.

Here's some inspiration, click any outfit for details on the items shown:

Outfit 1

Classic: A classic trench is a travel must-have that goes from day to night, sunny skies to thunderstorms. Red leather flats from the Gap are a comfy yet chic way to get around.

Outfit 2

Casual Cool: I can't wear Converse sneaks myself (not enough arch support), but thousands (perhaps millions?) of people swear by them for comfort and hipster style. Add a boyfriend blazer to cover up if it gets cold.

Outfit 3

Going Out: There's tons of nightlife in Orlando, both around the theme parks and even downtown. A pretty top and black pants is laid back yet still fun enough for partying.

Florida readers/travelers: What did I miss??