I'm aware that there is such a thing as a "slouchy boot," well, mine aren't. I've worn them several times and now they are starting to slouch around the ankles, making them look very unattractive. How can I fix this? —Claudia

I'm afraid there's no way to restore your boots to their original state, however, there are some things you can do to prevent them from slouching even more. First, be careful when you'll pulling your boots on and off. If they lace or zip up, be sure to loosen them all the way before slipping them onto your feet so you do as little damage as possible.

Second, make sure you're storing your boots properly; either roll up some cardboard and place it in the shaft of each boot to maintain the shape (keep the packaging your boots came with), or buy some of these boot shapers from the Container Store ($9.99 for a set of 2).

The next time you're shopping for boots, look for a pair that fits fairly snug around the calf and around the ankles—there shouldn't be a wide gap in either place. Also, keep in mind that part of what gives leather boots their character and charm is the way they change over time; sometimes a little slouch can be a good thing!

Colored tights have been popular for a few seasons now, and I think it's safe to say this trend is here to stay. For Fall 2008, designers like Anna Sui, Just Cavalli and Chloe mixed patterned tights with dresses and heels, a perfectly chic—and inexpensive—way to add warmth when temperatures drop. As spring approaches (eek, I said the "S" word!), you can continue to pair those boldly colored tights with skirts, frocks and sandals. I'll admit this isn't the easiest look to pull off, so let's look for some inspiration off the runway...




Representing the west coast, Cupcakes and Cashmere (left) rocks her bright red tights as only a California girl could—with a relaxed shirtdress, gray suede boots and Foley + Corinna handbag, all in neutral shades to temper the eye-catching hue on her legs.

New York City's retrogurl aka nitro:licious (middle) shows off her floral Forever 21 tights by pairing them with a black dress and towering black booties. With it's reserved exuberance, this look can go from day to night.

Former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell (not a blogger but oh well) does a nice job pairing purple tights with a monochromatic black outfit. This is probably the approach I would take since it's a cute, cheap way to update an LBD.




Where to shop for colored tights:

• 
  MyTights.com: Features every pattern and color imaginable, from plaid checks to Pucci swirls.
  


• 
  Lovecolour-Lovetights.com: Lets you shop by color, type and pattern so you can find exactly what you're looking for.
  


• 
  FreePeople.com: A carefully edited selection of colored, patterned and textured tights that will inspire and awe.
  


• 
  Anthropologie.com: These essential opaque tights, available in 7 colors, cost just $12.50.
  


• 
  Forever21.com: It's hard to beat F21's wide selection (floral, stripes, solids) and low prices (all tights are under $10).
  


• 
  Target: You can always count on Tar-zhay for inexpensive accessories (like tights) that will help you update your wardrobe for less.

What do you think of colored tights?

When I initially heard about 1site1price.com—a new discount fashion store where everything's one price—I was so utterly turned off by the lame name that I decided it wasn't worth my time. But then my curiosity got the best of me (oh, how quickly things can change), and, well, I placed my first order. Keep reading to hear how it went (and to see what I bought!)

I have a question: To Ugg or not to Ugg? I spend most of my day in Toronto and it's been extremely cold lately. My feet are cold and wet...and I HATE it! I'm deciding whether or not I should purchase Uggs. I think they're pretty ugly, but is the warmth worth it? How are they against snow and slush? Stains? Can you give me the pros and cons about your experience with Uggs? —Rd.

Aside from Inauguration fever, the only things keeping me warm and toasty today are my beloved Uggs. A couple years ago when Oprah did one of her Favorite Things shows, she generously gifted her employees with a few of the top items on her list, including the Ugg Uptown boots you see me wearing in the photos above. I never would have purchased them on my own, but since they were free, I gave them a chance—and I have never looked back.

Tough economic times call for creativity and resourcefulness when it comes to looking and feeling your best - because that's what style is all about. It's never been about the labels or high-pricetags for us budget babes. It's been about smart shopping and having fun with fashion and self-expression. So here are some tips to help you continue to look fabulous without a fortune.

1. Reheel and polish old shoes. Getting shoes reheeled averages $5 at my neighborhood cobbler which is way less than buying a new pair of boots. Now's also a good time to get out that shoe polish (I love Kiwi brand), an old rag, and polish and shine those shoes to like-new perfection. You'll be amazed at the results.