Question: Hi Franco, I will be attending a fashion show, where designers will showcase Spring Summer collections. I don't know what to wear...please help. I'm short at 5'1" and don't feel sexy... I also don`t know what to wear that shall hide my belly fats! Thanks. Manila, Philippines

Franco: Hmmm...attending a designer fashion show, petite and worried about shape

I see a slim fitting Black Jacket and Pant suit in your horizon! You can never go wrong wearing a very cool skinny one or two button jacket (please make sure it's not too long - length of the jacket should come to 2 or 3 inches above your seat) and team it up with a matching slim pant.

The pant can have some shape, as in "boot leg" or "stove pipe" bottom. Grab yourself a sexy black or white satin shirt (tucked in of course) and pair it all with an even-sexier high heeled, pointed toe shoe.

Not only do you look fashionable, but now we've hidden the rolls and added a few inches to your height....you might even pass as a fashion editor at this event!

Question: I was just wondering if crocheted items such as handbags, belts, and etc. will make a comeback in fashion soon. USA

Franco: The trend of handbags and belts in crochet comes and goes like accessories in all other fashion cycles. It`s funny though, as you never see any of the trends ever going away completely (all together anyway).

So everything has it's time and place.

My thoughts are always this: if you really like certain accessories, definitely include them with your own outfits anyway. If they look super cool on you....you`re going to start their comeback to fashion all by yourself!

Question: I am 52 years old and love fashion - am 5' 6" and a size 10 but have a chubby belly and a size 36D bra so I am very self conscious to wear fitted tops - I wear lots of jackets but wondered if my body type would look good in the trapeze tops or baby doll tops. If so, would straight leg pants or jeans be ok with heels or a flat better? Medford, USA

Franco: From what you describe I would tend to avoid the baby doll and trapeze looks. They will only make you look heavier on top, which you want to avoid.

Stick to more tailored things like fitted or shaped jackets and shirts. In case you didnt know, this brings more focus to your neck and bust while also giving you height. I would also look to skinny pants and high heels.

It's almost like we're stretching you out a little bit, and you're getting taller and more slender!

Question: Hi Franco, I would like to know what are the best clothes to flatter my figure which is like an ice cream cone shape. I am small on the bottom & big on top.. any adviceÉ I`m also moving to Florida in 2 mths, help me please! Bronx, USA

Franco: ``Shaped like an ice cream cone``....well, I haven't heard that one before!

All you need to do is wear tops that make you look smaller on top, which is easy to find. Items like skinny shirts or knits, but nothing too boxy or baby-doll like.

Mix and match the tops with wide leg pants or flirty swingy skirts. Not only wll they be flattering, you`ll look stylish as well.

If you are making the move to Florida, keep the same points in mind, but only focus on clothing that is more trans-seasonal - it can get very warm and humid in Florida.

FM

Question: Hi, i was just wondering if you knew much about Lepoard prints and fashion, who started the whole lepoard print trend and why is it so popular?? Australia

Franco: Animal prints and textures have been around since Man (and Women too) started wearing animal skins as protection from the elements.

.....or as I like to say "when people started to get dressed."

Believe it or not, animal prints have become classic - and more & more, it cycles in and out of fashion now almost every 4 or 5 seasons.

Question: Another 70 yo interested in fashion and going to spend 2 weeks in november in Italy. Want to look stylish but will be on a lot of trains with just 3 days in Rome so packing has to be concentrated. Any ideas for a basic to work from? Gracie, North port , USA

Franco: Italy tends to be cool towards the end of November.

If you are going to travel and jump on/off trains, then you need to travel light but with the right pieces.

I would pack a neat little black wardrobe. Nylon jacket or short trench coat. A turtleneck and v-neck sweaters. 2 great shirts - one black and one white...same goes for a couple of t-shirts. A black skinny dress pant, jeans and a knee length skirt in black. And don't forget a short cardigan in Black. Try to make sure these pieces have stretch in them.

Enjoy the trip!

Question: I am going to a wedding in Florida, in October, that will be held on the beach. What do I wear?!?! ND, USA

Franco: If you're invited to a beach wedding in Florida October, wear something sexy and with color!

I would do a wrap dress in matte jersey. Maybe a print or even a sharp red.

Pick something where you can take your heels off and still look good. You want to keep in mind that you wilk be walking through the sand, so keep it comfortable & easy, but still stylish. The wrap dress is the perfect combination.

FM

Question: Are skinny jeans still in? And if so how can I wear them since I like that look, but don't know if I can pull it off. TN, USA

Franco: Skinny jeans are still in but now so are wide leg jeans.

If you like either of those looks, go to your favorite department or fashion retail store and try, try, try all of the different jeans that are now out there.

Jean makers discovered about 15 years ago that there are lots and lots of different body types, so there should be something for you too.

Make sure to bring the type of shoe you would wear with jeans when you are out shopping. Try to visualize yourself as much as you can in order to help you select the look that's just right for you.

Question: Hello Franco, I have very skinny legs and I'm not comfortable wearing skirts nor dress, do you have to have cute legs to wear skirt I see most of the models are very skinny. Dallas, Tx

Franco: I always think that "skinny" is in the eye of the beholder.

There are lots of girls walking around with very skinny legs and they don't seem to mind showing them off. I guess it really depends on how comfortable you are showing yours.

If you aren't, go for pants but if you are willing to try, go for a skirt that comes in a pencil shape, that hugs the body without being too fitted. I would stay away from the puffy or volume skirts that have an "A" shape that comes away from your body.

Question: Hi Franco, I am 32 yrs today,what sort of dressing should I be wearing? São Paulo, Brazil

Franco: I am still surprised when I hear someone who is 32 years old asking questions about what to wear! Remember that 40 is the new 30 and 30 is the new 20 etc ..etc.....so technically, in today's society, you are 22 years old.

OK kidding aside, no matter what your age is, always dress with style!

The last thing you want is people standing around guessing how old you are. Wouldn't you rather they stand around and tell you how great you look? Or where do you get those great clothes?

I think that at the age of 32 you can still wear clothes that are VERY contemporary, but add pieces to your wardrobe that are made of better fabrics and quality than when you were 22....hopefully you've grown older AND wiser.

Question: Hi Franco, I'm going to a wedding I purchased 2 dresses from Nordstrom both of them are black with a white pattern. Is black a suitable color for a wedding. Also I need suggestion as to shoe color and accessories. The sales lady at Nordstrom suggested red shoes something I would have never thought of the go with black & white. What do you suggest? What color shoe and what type of accessories and Jewelry would be fashionable.

Franco: So long as it's not your wedding, a black + white or black dress is absolutely fine!

As for adding red shoes it's totally up to you, but it could be interesting.

Just make sure to play up some of your other accessories and handbag with the color red too. Bold colors are very hot for accessories for Fall, so you can't go wrong.

Question: Hey Franco, I am 6'2" and have just resently lost 44 pounds - what do I do if I have just a little bit of a stomach, how do i make it disappear?

Franco: Wow..you're a tall one. Congratulations on losing the 44lbs, not an easy task I am sure!

As for hiding your stomach, the first thing to do is not wear or buy any tops that are too fitted or have a 'glued to your body' kind of effect.

Fitted clothing only seems to attract more attention to this area on your body.

There are 2 ways to go:

1) Buy tops that have shape and show your curves or
2) purchase pieces that move and drape away from your body

By losing the weight, you should feel more confident, and if you stick the 2 points above, you'll look & feel great.

FM

Question: I am having a little bit of trouble keeping up and affording all the latest fashions at my school. How can i keep up to date with out looking like a retard for copying the popular girls??? Dayton, USA

Franco: Not all things for all people and not all trends for everyone!

I wouldn't worry about copying anyone, those people that you fear of copying probably copied someone themselves.

If I were you, I would look through magazines, watch TV or go to the movies to see who your favorite stars are and to see how they put themselves together. If you take a little idea here and there you might get a better sense of yourself and come up with a style that's all your own.

Try to experiment and have fun with clothes that you wear. You might become the next trendy girl to watch at your school!

Question: I am planning a 3 month trip to Europe in Sept. Could you advise me what fashionable yet easily interchangable items to take? Also what kind of hose are popular now with nice slim fitting dresses? I have several classic Escada Jacki O dresses what could update this classic look? Shoes ?? Costa Rica.

Franco: 3 months in Europe starting September...hmm.

Sounds like fun but you better bring along some great transition pieces. September can still be quite warm but as you get into November, things cool down pretty quickly.

Start with a black jacket and matching pant/skirt. A nylon trench coat, add in a couple of pair of jeans, some cute shirts and some knit tops. Mix everything up, wear your black jacket with a shirt over a pair of skinny jeans. Your trench coat over a slim fitting knit tee and pencil skirt.

Now you begin to get the idea, you will start to layer your garments as it gets cool and remove layers when the temperature gets too warm.

As for shoes....flats, flats for comfort and wear heels with shoes or boots when you go out at night to someplace special.

Question: I am in my 70's but still love fashion. However, I don't want to be mutton dressed as lamb, nor do I want to be frumpy! What capsule wardrobe would you advise me to get, please? I have basic black and basic navy items in Summer and in Winter weight. The smock tops this season reminded me of them first time round and I feel comfortable in them. However my daughter seemed to think they were "too young" for me. My thanks, Franco. Utah, USA

Franco: Nice to hear that you are into your 70's and still in love with fashion!

Judging by the sound of your question, you seem quite youthful at heart. Iwould definitely explore the smock tops and find something that you think suitsyou.There are lots of shapes and sizes out there.

Just make sure that you buy something made well and of a good fabric. I wouldthen go looking for some great city walking shorts, a pencil skirt maybe some great cropped pants.

That's 3-4 pieces which could quickly update your present wardrobe.

FM

Question: Hi, can you tell me if skirts are longer for the fall? Also for a jacket- where should a cuff fall? Thanks. Williamsburg, VA

Franco: Skirts are creeping up in length for Fall/Winter 2007/8.

My own Collection has 2 lengths for F/W, one is 19 inches and the other is 23 inches.

I love the shorter lengths with the new funky Pea Jackets but I continue to adore the longer lengths with all the great knit tops and blouse shapes we are doing too.

Question: Hi Franco, MAKE ME BEAUTIFUL!!, What colors for clothing are in for 2007 Summer/Fall, shoe style and whats the best shirt and pants style for a 5'2" girl w/chubby arms and legs? Thanks for the help! Miramar USA

Franco: Right now I would be looking for wardrobe pieces that would work through a Summer into Fall transition.

At 5'2", you are considered a "petite" size, so that's where I would head to go shopping. Stick to shirts that have shape but are not absolutely skin tight or fitted. Shirts with short or three quarter lengths will take away some of the "chubby" factor and will elongate you.

As for the pants, try to look for shapes that make your bum look like it has definition, nothing too baggy. Opt for pants that have either a skinny or boot leg, you want to create a look that's slender, tends to stretch you out a little and makes you look taller.

Question: If I am going to an upscale restaurant on a date and want to be a little sexy, but still classy, what kind of top could I wear with a black pencil skirt? New York, USA

Franco: There are a couple of ways to go if you are going to wear a black Pencil Skirt, plus you can do it in almost any color:

Option #1 -you can do "draped" sexy, that's where the top has some volume and drape, it's almost an "A" shape, that is away from the body. It's a very youthful inspired look that you can do that in a short or even sleeveless top.

Option #2 -the alternative being something more tailored, like a very fitted short sleeve shirt, that has some stretch in the fabric. This outfit will give you a more powerful, but sexy look.

Either one is a great look for an upscale restaurant.

Question: Hi Franco , need your help I can never find a dress that compliments me. I have very broad shoulders, 5'4" and an undefined waistline , what is the best silohouette that would compliment my shapelessnes and at the same time keep me keep from having that pregnant look. Tampa, USA

Franco: I always say that one should play up their assets. Use your broad shoulders to make the outfit work!

I would start by looking at some jersey wrap dresses in petite sizes. Petite sizing will give you the desired length, not too long, perhaps hovering around just past your knee. I would look at dress that's sleeveless to show off your shoulders. Although you say that your waistline is undefined, the belt on the dress will offer you some definition to your body, almost an illusion of curves to your figure.

FM

Question: I bought a royal blue dress with a rhinestone broch. I am getting mixed responses to whether or not i should wear silver or white shoes and accessories. Its for a wedding with my boyfriends parents. HELP! Hamilton. Canada

Franco: While I am not a huge fan of white shoes with a royal blue dress, I am totally loving silver shoes and accessories this Summer.

I think it's a fresh look and would be great for the wedding.

Your boyfriend's parents will appreciate your fashion sense & you will feel stylish.

Question: I recently bought a pair of red, pointy-toed shoes to go with a pair of navy pinstripe pants. Would it be okay to wear a white sweater with this or would that look too "America" (red, white and blue)? St John's, Canada

Franco: It would look a little American inspired had you told me that you were adding some "stars" to your outfit!

It really sounds like you are putting together somewhat of a Nautical look, which I always think of the way that French women dress sometimes. Anyhow it's a definite look and you have my blessing to go ahead and add the white sweater.

Question: What about leather? Is it in or out in '07? I have this great pair of leather pants, but nobody seems to be wearing them these days. Should I or shouldn't I, that is the question. Dallas, USA

Franco: Leather garments go in and out of fashion magazines, but they never go away. Leather is what I call "one of the Classics".

This year I am seeing lots of metallic looks in leather pants, so that's what is really in the news for leather. Still ... I don't mind you sneaking a great pair of skinny black leather pants into your Fall/Winter wardrobe this year. You own them, you might as well wear them!

FM

Question: There is a heated debate about when to wear white clothes and shoes at my work. Some people believe that one should not wear white until after Memorial Day and before Labor Day, is this still true? Please help clear this up. Thanks for your time and help. Michigan, USA

Franco: Yes it’s true, these rules played an important role in defining what people would wear in public, during the Spring and Summer months.

However, I don’t really think that they apply anymore - these rules have been broken so many times in recent years. We have actually sold lots of White outer wear jackets for the Fall/Winter season, over the past few years. If the debate about wearing white in the office is too hot to handle, and you feel more comfortable sticking to the old guide lines, then that’s what you should do. But the rule can definitely be broken.

Question: Hi Franco, I have some very pointy flat mules in leopard print. Are they in and if so what can I wear them with? Somerset, Ma USA

Franco: Flats and animal prints are both totally in!

You can wear them with just about anything……short skirts, dresses, cropped pants and even a pair of really cool urban walking shorts. And also keep in mind, Capri pants are worn closer to the body with a slightly higher waist than last season.

Question: I live on the West Coast and am going to New York for the first time. What is the correct attire for a Broadway play? USA

Franco: I was at the theatre recently and I saw people wearing anything from very casual jeans to black tie.

I tend to think that if you are going to take the trouble to get to New York and "do" the town, that you should really dress the part. You may not want to do Black Tie but you can dress like you're going to a work related cocktail party.

Think about a black jersey dress or jacket/pant/skirt look.

Question: Hi from sunny California, Franco! I'm 5'4" tall gal who is extremely short-waisted. What's the best choice as far as cropped pants and city shorts for someone like me? Any time I've ever tried to pull off this trend, I end up looking stumpy. Help!

Franco: At a height of 5’4” you could almost be considered a “petite.”

I would skip the cropped pant as they tend to land around the mid-calf (lower on someone that is shorter than 5’6”). If I were you I would try the city shorts or even a short skirt, there are lots of choices this season.

Play with the different proportions before you settle on the look and make certain that you feel comfortable enough to pull it off. Confidence makes a big difference to any look!

FM