Ask Fashion Girl

Dear Fashion Girl,

Dear Fashion Girl,

I have been wondering what is"in style"-- I mean, the clothes we wear at our school are not worn on TV shows and stuff, and if you get caught dead wearing the clothes that they have on fashion shows on TV . . . It is totally different from school . . . Help!

Brittaney

Dear Brittaney

You're right in thinking that the clothes that are in style for school are not the same clothes that are in style in magazines and on TV style shows. What you need for school are cute basics such as denim, twill, and corduroy pants and skirts that aren't outlandish and over-the-top. A cute tee or sweater will be better for school than something chiffon or dripping with lace, and stiletto-heeled sandals would look pretty silly at school compared to a great pair of athletic-inspired flats. The TV shows are mostly dressing an older person, in her 20s, who is out to look glamorous, not someone who is trying to look good at high school or middle school. The stuff they're wearing on TV, even though they're wearing it in the daytime, might be good for a special evening out for you. So enjoy those shows for what they are -- unrealistic! -- and shop in the junior department of your local department stores and at stores such as Pac Sun, American Eagle, delias.com, girlfriendsla.com, and alloy.com for clothes that are flattering without being outrageous or too dressed-up.

Sincerely, Fashion Girl