A. If I had a coin for every time someone asked me some version of the same "pantyhose with sandals" conundrum I would have enough money for a lifetime supply of different Manolo's for every day of the week!

Sheer nude hose worn with very open toe shoes or sandals looks weird. A small peek-a-boo open toe shoe looks fine when worn with hosiery. Bare feet and a perfect pedicure are best with sandals. Tip: if you need the support of pantyhose and you're wearing pants, hack the feet off your tights or try Spanx for a footless look.

If the outfit and shoes look best with bare legs, go ahead as long as you can brave the temperature and don't look like a frostbitten fashion victim on the way to the ER. Get more edgy than Aunt Gladys and wear bold hose in a pattern or texture or a cute sock that makes a style statement.

Most important, if you feel nervous about wearing something, it's not for you!


--January 5, 2002