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Name: Kate

Message:

I know it is not strictly a "fashion" query but I am DESPERATE so will try anything...... Please tell me where I can buy Pupa cosmetics online or via mail order? I know I can get them via the sephora.com website but was reluctant to pay import taxes if there was a British (or at least European!) agent for them. Plllllllleease help - I am desperate!

You're in luck, Pupa is an Italian company. You can check out their website if you know Italian or try online retailers All About Eve or Bella Donna or just search on your favorite search engine.

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Name: Gudrun

Message:

Hello, I'm from Iceland (Reykjavik) and i have to go to Los Angeles in about two weeks, the thing is i certainly dont have clothes for LA, since iceland is always cold. I need ideas. ciao

As with other big cities, anything goes in LA. The key is to be comfortable with your style. Streetwear always passes as chic so check out LondonWide if you need a place to shop. You won't be needing too many layers as LA is quite warm in the summer. Some nice sandals or flip-flops will do for footwear, as would trainers if you can stand the heat. Heels are de rigeur for most industry ladies in the evening, but many 'normal' people go casual round the clock. The easiest to pack is black for night and some jeans or skirts and cool shirts for day, then accessorise as best as you can.

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Name: Mita

Message:

I have recently gone from a size 14 to a size 10 and have avoided buying clothes for the last year or two (until I was down to my desired size) I now have achieved the size but have no wardrobe!! I can't afford to buy everything all at once, but have no idea where to start, any ideas??

Congrats on reaching your goal! You should start with the basics - jeans, fitted Ts, a casual and going out skirt, trousers etc. Assuming that you can use all your previous accessories to embellish your new clothes, just go for basic items that fit well and show off your new shape. It's easy to get these at your local Hennes, TopShop or Miss Selfridge. Try charity shops for more unique items as well as any markets in your area. If you want to take the online route, check out LondonWide for some great streetwear.

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Name: Claire

Message:

i am fed up of wearing black trousers where ever i go and i need some new ideas for bottoms for all occasions (casual and going out, skirts and trousers). where do i shop for them. im not a totally outrageous person and want to fit in but at the same time dont want to have the same trousers as everyone else.

Denim is the biz niz at the moment. It works for both casual and night wear (well, depending on where you go). You can have fun with skirts of all lengths depending on what you're comfortable with. Graffiti scrawlings, army-print and pin-stripes are all happening right now and you can match it up with a plain top to fit within your comfort level. Try markets or charity shops for unique items or simply see our DIY Style guide for inspiration on how to accessorise and personalise your clothes.

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Name: Trish

Message:

hi, i got this absolutely cool denim skirt, nicely faded and its not tight, its quite loose actually, and has graffiti all over it, and i just love it... however, i've looked through my whole wardrobe and i can't find anything that matches it. any ideas?

Why not just try a single coloured T or vest or one with a simple graphic on it and trainers or sandals? You could also match your top to the text, but a simple white should do beautifully as well. It's hard to say what shoes are best without knowing the length of the skirt, but the skirt sounds best as casual hanging out and going out wear.

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Name: emma griffths

Message:

do trainers and a trousers suits work together. also does this type of outfit work in an office enviroment. If you could show me examples of this that would be great thank you

Hmmm, I'd have to say that on the most part a trouser suit would not go with trainers. Perhaps if you did not wear the matching jacket and just a long sleeve, collared shirt instead, it could work. Depending on the atmosphere in your office and the position you hold, it can be appropriate. If you think it is, wide leg trousers with a small turn-up would work or even just ones with a bit of flare. Depending on the length, mules could work too.

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Name: Paul

Message:

Hi. I am a transvestite, and on the large side. Have you any tips on what I should buy to make it look as if my waist is smaller than my hips. I am fairly new to the TV scene, but I am going into it in a big way, hopefully. Thanks

Corsets and demi-corsets, which are looking to be very popular this autumn as both inner- and outerwear, should do the trick. Victorian Corsets stocks a wide range. Also it will help if you don't call attention to your waist. Wear low slung trousers/skirts and keep belts, sashes, etc at your hips, not your waist. You can also look for tips and places to shop at websites such as Transgender Forum.

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Name: Sonia

Message:

hi, i have this real fab idea for a new outlet for fashion clothes and i reallyyyyy want to sell it-or just give it to someone who can make the idea into a reality..can u help me with this..its really fab and i have told abt it to my boyfriend and he thinks so too. Please Help!

Not to put a damper on things, but you should start thinking of saving some money to start up your idea. Prepare a presentation/business plan for potential investors to look at or find out what is involved in getting a loan. Make sure to work out all the financial logistics first. If others like your idea, then you'll know with all the profits. Also, you should be careful who you tell about your plans as it's a competitive business out there and unfortunately, great ideas have been stolen before. Good luck!!

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Name: Lulu

Message:

Hey there Sexy British Ladies! What is your opinion on the slogan "Dress For Success" and how long can one get away with wearing trendy clothing before axing it all for suits?

To "Dress For Success" can, unfortunately, sometimes mean giving up a little personal style (say jeans for suits), but can be easily redeemed with accessories (or you can be smug and look smart on the outside but have some seriously scandalous undergarments). Suits can be quite trendy in themselves, however. It all depends on the fit, the tailoring and how you carry it. And depending on the job market you're in you may never even have to wear suits!

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Name: Andy

Message:

Help My mum has been having a style crisis for the past 30 or so years, and is not confident enough to have a drastic change, so i suggested that she goes to see a fashion consultant / stylist. if you can supply any details or contacts ( especaily in the wales / cardiff area) this would be much appreciated. yours in hope Andy

Though there are tonnes of stylists in London (most of whom charge a pretty penny), there doesn't seem to be any in the Cardiff area. Generally, many women start feeling unstylish as they get older, but there are some simple ways to revamp your mum. First, she should start with a good haircut and get recommendations from friends that have hair she admires. Eyebrows and skincare are also very important - again, she should go to someone who carries themselves off well and ask their advice. Finally, the clothes your mum wears should be something she's comfortable with, as confindence is the utilmate style enhancer. Have her try a personal shopper if any department stores in your area offer this service. If your mum is weary of a sudden transformation, have her slowly incorporate new pieces into her wardrobe. Getting clothes that are tailored well can make a big difference. Perhaps try to avoid anything too trendy at first, and just start with the basics - single coloured or pin-stripe trousers, a skirt or dress, blouses, etc. Then later on she can mix and match with ease.

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