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

Dear Belle,

I’d like to add some leopard to my wardrobe, but not full-on leopard.  I was thinking about a belt or a scarf or a bag.  Just a hint of leopard.  Any recommendations for leopard print pieces under-$100?  Especially pieces that don’t look super cheap (some of the leopard in stores looks like those cheap blankets from the 80s).  

Thanks, Payton

If you’re hesitant looking for a leopard accent, I think shoes are probably your best bet.  These flats from the Gap are fantastic at $50, and these animal print Steve Madden pumps have a smaller, more subtle pattern.

I also found this leopard print belt from JCPenney, and this ASOS leopard print scarf with a white field as opposed to a tan one.  But if it is a bag you’re after, this Steve Madden bag comes in both a grey and tan leopard print and looks more expensive than most leopard bags in the price range.  I also like this leopard minaudière for evening, it has a great subtle texture.

Hi Belle,

I have what should be a simple request.  Should.  I’m looking for a pair of high heel, knee high boots in black. I don’t mind if they have some small buckles or accents, but I cannot seem to find a pair of basic boots anywhere.  Please help.

Liz

You’re right, it should be an easy request, but it’s not.  The best pair of basic, knee-high boots on the market right now come from Loeffler Randall, but they’ll set your budget back a bit.  In the lower price points, these Land’s End Allaire boots are the best thing on the market, but these Worthington boots from JCPenney also have promise.

It’s still a bit early in the season, so if boots are what you’re after, give it a few more weeks.  And keep an eye on retailers like Piperlime and Nordstrom who are always adding stock.

Dear Belle,

My skin is really red from Rosacea. I don’t wear much makeup at my current job, but I’m interviewing and want to look my best.  Do you have any suggestions for makeup that covers redness?

Love the blog, thank you for responding. Jacq

Corrective makeup is the new hot trend in beauty.  Lucky Magazine has a great article on how to choose the right corrective makeup for your skin issue.

In your case, redness is corrected with green hues.  Smashbox has a green correcting base that might help, and if you need a drugstore brand, look no further than L’Oreal.

Hi,

I’m plus size and looking for a few sweaters for fall.  There isn’t much to buy that isn’t a black v-neck.  If you could find a few sweaters that come in my size but aren’t a total snoozefest, I would really appreciate it.

Thanks for including more sizes on your blog. Hannah

This DKNY sweater has a great cowl neck and a chunky knit, not to mention a good price.  I also liked this zig-zag print drape cardigan from INC at Macy’s.  And this open work sweater in platinum grey is pretty phenomenal.  These are just a few options, but as we talk more about sweaters for fall, I’ll make more plus-size suggestions.

Belle,

My cousin’s wedding is in a few weeks and I need a dress.  The wedding is in the evening, and probably one step below cocktail attire.  I’m looking for something under $150 that I might be able to wear again.  Thoughts?

Madelyn

Unlike a bridesmaid, you get to choose your dress.  So as long as you choose one you like, in a classic style, you should be able to wear it again without issue.  And when I need a semi-formal or cocktail dress on a budget, I always go to Nordstrom.

I really like this Alex evenings dress with a sheath cut and lace illusion sleeve.  I also like this simple Adrianna Papell pleated crepe dress, which could be dressed up for an evening wedding and dressed down for the office.  I also adore this sheer yoke KamaliKulture dress.