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Ask Belle Roundup Vol. III, No. Twenty-Eight

Sep 3, 2013

Dear Belle,

I’m looking for the perfect red nail polish.  I want that classic 1940s red, and I can’t seem to find it anywhere.  The shades are either too dark or too orange.  What’s your best red polish?

Thanks, Kelly

If you want a bold red, I would suggest trying Essie Lollipop or OPI Big Apple Red (which I am wearing right now).  Should neither of those strike your fancy, one of my old co-workers swears by OPI I Am Not Really a Waitress.

Belle,

My boring black wool coat needs to be retired, and I’d like to find a cool winter coat that has real style.  The trouble is that I need to spend less than $300 and the coats I like cost wayyy more.  Can you help me find something?

Love CHS! Anne

I spotted this colorblock car coat in oatmeal and grey at a Macy’s a few weeks back and have been eyeing it ever since.  This raspberry-colored, mandarin collar coat from Vanessa Bruno has been on my radar since last season, and now that it’s on sale for $225 at The Outnet, I’m finding it hard not to pull the trigger.  I also love this Via Spiga coat in charcoal tweed with faux-leather trim, though the sizes are somewhat limited.

But my advice to you, and anyone who needs a good winter coat, is this: Go to the J.Crew website.  Pick out the coat you want.  Wait for it to go on 30-40% on sale, and then buy it.  They make a great winter coat, esp. with the Thinsulate liner, but there’s no reason to ever pay full price.

Dear Belle,

I don’t want to sound like a stalker, but I spotted you in Adams Morgan a few weeks back and admired the lipstick you were wearing.  Can you tell me what it was?  

Have a good day, Lila

Adams Morgan?  I’m guessing it was a Saturday morning.  I think I was wearing my usual combination of Clinique Black Honey on the bottom, and Trish McEvoy Beauty Booster Gloss in Brighten Pink on top.

Belle,

Can you suggest a simple flat black knee-high boot for fall that is under-$200 and free of embellishments?  I’m seriously sick of buckles, medallions and extras.  I just want a plain black boot in round or almond toe.  Is that so much to ask?

Caitlyn

Finding the simplest items can be difficult.  Thanks to a reader, I discovered that Victoria’s Secret is now selling my beloved Ciao Bella riding boots.  They’re simple, comfortable and chic.  That’s a great place to start, esp. at $129.

I also really liked these Enzo Angiolini Zeric riding boots (under-$100!).  They have a stretchy back and peaked shaft in the front.  And if come of you don’t mind paying more for a great boot, I’m told the Loeffler Randall sliver wedge riding boot is sublime.

If you have wide calves, check out these Enzo Angiolini Shobi boots.  They come in a handful of colors.  Narrow calves?  I had trouble finding options for you, but I think some of our commenters might be able to help.