Dr. Look Good
Sydney Morning Herald
Wednesday August 27, 2003
Q. I've started getting bikini anxiety already. Where can I find styles that aren't made for 17-year-old models with perfect bodies?
A. I hear you. Clearly, most swimwear manufacturers don't believe in gravity. Mature, sophisticated styles do exist, though (try Jets, in particular) and department stores are the best place to start looking. If you're after extra support go for styles made with firm, good-quality fabrics, and if you're anxious about your behind, avoid skimpy bottoms. Steer clear of surf shops, they're strictly for the under 25s - and avoid anything with the word "Brazilian" on the swing tag. And next time you're in Bondi, get down to fantastic swimwear specialist Bikini Island.
Q. I've heard that you should have two foundation shades - one for summer and one for winter. Does it really make a difference?
A. It depends. If you're a fair-skinned good girl who wears sunscreen all year round, and doesn't bake on the beach in summer, you don't really need a darker shade. But if you're one of those olive-skinned sun bunnies who turns chocolate from December to March then, yes, if you want it to match your bronzed summer tone, you should be using a slightly darker shade of foundation than the one you use during winter.
Q. I'm addicted to my straightening iron but it's starting to dry out my hair. Are there any other options, short of chemically straightening my hair?
A. Unless you're a maestro with the hair dryer or live with a hair stylist, straightening irons are still the most effective option for DIY straightening. They can be drying but the new-generation of irons, which use ceramic panels rather than metal, are much gentler on your hair and work a lot faster. You can buy the sought-after GHD ceramic iron at Synergy Hair for $330, or call 1300 136 819 for your nearest stockist.
Q. I'm relatively thin and almost 200cm tall. Buying business shirts and general stuff is easy, but decent, affordable, stepping-out gear is impossible to find. Any clues?
A. I feel for you. You're right, there's not a lot out there. Department stores are your best bet because they carry brands that cater for extra-talls. If you're after jeans, head to the General Pants city store, where a couple of brands with an extra-long leg design are stocked. Also, check out specialist King Size Big and Tall, www.kingsize.com.au. It's not Gucci but for under $100 you should be able to find some decent basics like jeans, cargo pants, knitwear and shorts.
Q. I'm thinking of buying a waterproof mascara for summer but I've never used one before. Will I be able to go swimming without it running?
A. Technically, you should be able to swim the English Channel in waterproof mascara without ending up with panda bear eyes but in reality most waterproof formulas are fallible. The effectiveness of waterproofing has a lot to do with your skin and lashes. To find the best brand for you, try on a tester first and pop your head under the shower when you get home.
Q. I'm going to a wedding next month and the invitation says smart casual, whatever that means. The ceremony is
in a church, so should I wear a suit and tie?
A. Be thankful that your invitation specified something at all - weddings can be so casual these days that almost anything goes. Now, for men, smart casual means that jeans, chinos and cargos should be left at home. Likewise for tuxedos. Wear a suit, but not your serious three-button number. Go for a groovier two-button style. And forget the tie. A crisp, well-fitting white shirt with a stiff collar is stylish on its own. Think Rat Pack.
Send your questions to dr.lookgood@smh.com.au.
© 2003 Sydney Morning Herald