Carson Kressley, the wickedly funny fashionista from "Queer Eye
for the Straight Guy," has made it cool for the average guy to care
about clothes. In his new book, "Off the Cuff: The Essential Guide for
Men and Women Who Love Them," Kressley gives guys a step-by-step guide
to knowing what to wear when, what to toss and how to shop. He
dispenses his wardrobe wisdom on such things as when to wear cashmere
(always) and pleated khakis (never) and whether to follow trends (you
don't want to look like everyone else, do you?). Kressley also provides
tips women can use to help their guys.
Kressley discusses fashion and his new book with host Janet Bennett, washingtonpost.com fashion and beauty editor, on Monday, Sept. 27, at 2:30 p.m. ET.
Thursday's Sessions
Election 2004: Economic Issues, 10
Home Front: Home Staff, 11 a.m.
Election 2004: Norm Ornstein, 11
Motorcycles: Safety Expert, 11
Moving Crew: Training Kids, 11
Sports: Maryland Football, Noon
Tech: Dot-Com Business Plans, Noon
Marathon: Marine Corps, Noon
What's Cooking: Vegetarian, Noon
Home Sense: Mike McClintock, Noon
Metro: Marc Fisher, Noon
Reliable Source: Richard Leiby, Noon
Got Plans?: The Going Out Gurus, 1
Talking Points: Terry Neal, 1 p.m.
Garden Plot: Adrian Higgins, 1 p.m.
Election 2004: Economic Issues, 2
Book Club: The Golden Compass, 3
Weekly Schedule |
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Editor's Note:
Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online
discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and
hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.
_____________
Janet Bennett: Hi, everyone,
Thanks for tuning in. Ready to talk to Carson Kressley about his new book and fashion dos and don'ts? Let the questions begin!
_______________________
Centreville, Va.:
I get a little tired of the constant bashing of pleated pants. Flat
front pants do not fit me right (I've tried a dozen different brands,
all the way up to $150 in price.) Why and when did pleated khakis have
to become this horrible mistake? Is this just a case of fashion having
to change for the sake of change?
Carson Kressley: In my heart of hearts, I really do believe that
flat front pants do in fact look better on everyone. They are simply
more modern and cleaner looking. Contrary to popular belief I do think
they are slimming on heavier men. Try Bill's Khakis. They offer several
fits that flatter most any figure. They are at billskhakis.com.
_______________________
Sterling, Va.:
What shoe/boot works best with a suede skirt?
Carson Kressley: This is a tricky predicament, especially for
men with large calves. But for women, it is much easier. Since suede is
traditionally a fall and winter skin, I like to see suede skirts with a
nice leather boot. If you can wear a heel that is the best bet to "sex
it up". Regular heels in LEATHER look great too. Try not to match suede
to suede; too much is not a good thing.
_______________________
Madison, Wis.: What are the best styles of pants for a tall man
with a beer gut? 6'3" and 260. Cuffs or no? He's getting back into the
business world, and I want to help him look good as he relaunches his
career.
Carson Kressley: Have him wear a flat front pant (it is
slimming) and I would recommend no cuff for a cleaner, modern look. If
his height is imposing, however, a cuff may give his leg a better sense
of proportion. A little cardio can help with the beer gut!
_______________________
Springfield, Va.:
Have you a theory, or perhaps an explanation, as to why I am seeing gaucho pants again?
Carson Kressley: Obviously it is some secret iniative commenced
by the Argentinian government to stimulate their economy. Gauchos went
away the first time for a reason.
_______________________
the 'burbs:
Carson-
What would be the number one thing you'd advise men
who just don't get the fashion "thing"? My husband is an astronomer,
and you can tell by the way he dresses!
Carson Kressley: For novices, and astronomers, I like to employe
the time tested adage of "KISS". Keep it simple, sister. Baby steps.
Start with good looking classics from a traditional designer. Think
blue blazers, flat front khakis, and oxford shirts from Brooks
Brothers.
_______________________
Reston, VA:
Are there any plans in the works for Carson to design his own line of clothing?
Carson Kressley: There has been some talk, but nothing as of
yet. I spend so much time in straight guy's drawers that I cannot
imagine finding the time to design a line! But fear not, I am working
on it!
_______________________
Washington, D.C.:
Hello!
Love your show. Am going to buy one or two blazers,
have my eye on JCREW green wool blazer and houndstooth blazer. Any
opinions?
What is the must have for guys this fall?
Thanks!
Carson Kressley: I think the must have for guys this season is a
boyfriend. Oh wait, that's what I want this fall. But back to you,
gentle internet subscriber, I love J CREW too and think it is an
excellent choice - traditional but with a youthful flair and subtle
fashion twists. Go with the houndstooth. You will get more mileage out
of it compared to the green.
_______________________
Arlington, Va.
Hi Carson- Remember me?
I am getting married in November and need something
hot for the rehearsal dinner at our yacht club. I am thinking nautical
colors, any other ideas for me?
Georgette
Carson Kressley: Even though it is fall, you cannot go wrong
with a chic knit dress in Navy. Accessorize with gold and you are yacht
to be overlooked.
_______________________
Alexandria, VA: Question from a girlfriend -- any thoughts on
how to go shopping with a boyfriend and steer him away from
unflattering choices without hurting his feelings? Secondary: any
thoughts on attractive shapes for a mid-height (5'11") guy with
muscular shoulders and a thick neck?
Carson Kressley: Baby steps. It is like training a pet! You dont
want to overwhelm him with too much information. Take him to one or two
stores and show him things that you think will look good on him. Have
him try on just a few items, so as not to induce the fight or flight
syndrome, and when he looks good praise him. It works for my Yorkie.
_______________________
Los Angeles, Ca. :
Hi - What colors do you think look best with a slightly darker complexion, brown eyes and black hair?
Carson Kressley: It really depends on skin TONE. Warm brown
tones (African American, Indian) can hold up nicely against bright
yellows, corals and red. Olive or yellow based skin tones have to wear
softer colors, think moss, pumpkin and nantucket red. A good rule of
thumb is to avoid colors that MATCH skin tone. Have you even seen
anyone look good in flesh tones? Me neiher, mon frer!
_______________________
Washington, D.C.:
Carson!
I watch your show regularly and love it.
My daughter's boyfriend needs major fashion help. I've never seen
him in anything else but ragged shorts jeans and plaid lumberjack
shirts. He either does not care or does not know how --I dare say--
offensive his clothes are to me. Is it appropriate for me, his
girlfriend's Mom, to approach him on the subject? If so, HOW do I go
about it?
Thank you for your reply
Carson Kressley: Danger will-mother-in-law! Danger. I think it
is best to let your daughter do the talking here. And I dont think she
should mention it came from you. I would have her simply suggest that
it would nice and respectful to dress a little more nicely around her
and you. The key is to make them think it THEIR idea!
_______________________
Tall Guy, Washington, D.C.: I'm over 6 feet tall, too tall for
most standard sizes (sleeves or inseams are too short). Seems that most
stores that cater to tall men either think we only wear khakis and
plaid or are not only tall, but really "big." Custom-made clothes are
too expensive for my budget. What are the options for a tall man who
wants to wear something a little more sylish than Dockers? Thanks.
Carson Kressley: Aside from very expensive surgery, there are
few options in the big and tall world. Just think of it as kharma for
being able to conveniently reach all those things on the upper shelves
at grocery stores. You win some, you lose some. BUT, tall one, there is
one very good option out there: Rochester Big & Tall. They carry
tall sizes from famous designers like Ralph Lauren and Versace. A few
strategic purchases can really spice up others in your wardrobe.
_______________________
Wilkes-Barre, PA=a.:
What are the guidelines for wearing a bow tie?
Carson Kressley: They are simple. Wear only for formal occaisions. Otherwise you could be mistaken for Orville Redenbacher. And he's dead.
_______________________
Washington, D.C.: Carson, please help my Dad. He wears polo
shirts all the time, and still wears the collars turned up. Is this OK
again? Or is Dad still stuck in the '80s?
Carson Kressley: Ah the dreaded collar erection. I loved it in
the eighties, but now it ust looks silly. It really only works on pro
golfers and tennis players, where, I might add, it serves (pun
intended) a real purpose in protecting the back of the neck from the
sun. If your dad is not Andre Aggasi, tell him to turn his collar down.
_______________________
Washington, D.C.: Please tell me why round toe shoes are back??
Seriously, how do you feel about round toe shoes for women, and can we
ignore the round toe and continue to wear pointy toe shoes and boots
without looking like an outdated fashion victim?
Carson Kressley: If you like points keep wearing them. To me they look dressier, more sophisticated and tailored. I am with you sister!
_______________________
Washington, DC:
Carson,
I love your show and am constantly amazed with what
you can accomplish in such a short amount of time with the guys you
make-over. (though the ice-skater didn't need much help!;) My question
is: I've noticed some fashion magazines and displays have guys wearing
pinstripe suites, shirts with stripes, and ties with stripes - all at
once. I was always taught that is a no-no - only TWO patterns at once.
Did I miss something? I'm only 25, so I hope not!;
Michael
Carson Kressley: This is an area in my book, Off The Cuff, that
I call: Not for Amateurs. Someone as adept as you, who is already
reading the fashion mags, and who has a whole life of tszujing ahead of
him can try the advanced maneuever of combining three patterns in a
natty Saville Row manner. Just remember to unify with color so as not
to induce seizures.
_______________________
Zurich, Switzerland:
Carson,
I love your sense of style!; What are the must-have 5 staple
items for a woman's winter wardrobe?
Carson Kressley: Guten Tag meine Schweitzer Freund! Here's my list:
1.touches of fur (real or fake)
2.Suede and leather (especially boots in chocolate brown suede)
3.brooches galore (from rhinestones to cameos)
4.patterned hose (think 1940s galmour)
5.A smile - its the cherry on top of the fashion sundae!
_______________________
Clayton, NM:
Give us some of your favorite on-line fashion sites and shopping sites.
Carson Kressley: Bluefly.com
Polo.com
dailycandy.com
ebay for vinatage like Lily Pulitzer and Rolex.
Carson Kressley: Silly me! Check out CarsonKressley.com as well for a list of fun links.
_______________________
Rosslyn, Va.: What kind of men's jeans are in style right now?
It is so confusing with different colors, cuts, zip vs button fly, etc.
What is one supposed to do?!?
Carson Kressley: When in doubt, chose a classic. I have always
liked the Levis 501 Button Fly. Those jeans are like the UPS man...they
give you a nice package.
_______________________
Stafford, Va.:
Carson - I am pleased to read your support of flat panel pants. The
sales guys in the Men's Dept. at the Tyson's Nordstrom store refer to
flat panel pants as "old man pants". Boo hoo.
Carson Kressley: Get me his name. I will send my peeps to work him over.
_______________________
Takoma Park, Maryland:
When will square toed shoes for men go out of style?
Carson Kressley: Soon, I hope. A pointed shoe is dressier, more tailored and just better looking in my opinion.
_______________________
washington, DC:
tell us about your new book!;
Carson Kressley: It is called Off the Cuff: The Essntial Style
Guide for Men and the Women Who Love Them. Pubished by Dutton. Go to
CarsonKressley.com or Amazon.com for more information. I like to think
of it as an original manifesto on looking good and feeling great about
it.
_______________________
Washington, D.C.:
I HATE pantyhose! Is it legal to go without them during the winter?
Janet Bennett: Hi, there,
Pantyhose can be a curse, and it's certainly not illegal to go without -- if you don't mind freezing!
_______________________
Rochester, NY:
Carson,
What's with pairing t-shirts with suit jackets? I don't get this
fashion statement and yet I see you put it together on the show. Is it
office casual or going out with friends casual?
Carson Kressley: The t shirt with suit look, in my opinion is
too casual for most office settings. But, if you work in a highly
creative environment, say an art gallery or record company it could
suit you to a t!
_______________________
Fairfax, Va.: When is baggy too baggy? At the gym playing
basketball, most of the younger players (high school/college) wear
shorts that extend past the knees. Do you approve?
Carson Kressley: What is the "Basketball" game you speak of?
Just kidding. I think for the gym whatever is comfortable works.
However, I do think it looks better to wear a classic mid-thigh length
gym short. Less to get tangled up in!
_______________________
Charlottesville, Va:
Tuxedo. Straight or bat wing collar?
Carson Kressley: Straight. Like I like my, um, vodka.
_______________________
Mexico City:
I watch your programme every Sunday, and also bought your book
recently. Most of the people that are shown there are thin, with a few
exceptions. Where can I find practical advice on fashion for chubby
people like me (because when I've followed your advice I look like, we
say in Mexico, a badly tied tamale)
Carson Kressley: Aye Dios Mio, Papi! A badly tied tamale sounds
like a botched briss! We dont want that, now do we? No matter what your
size it is important to wear clothes that fit. Always be sure to buy
the correct size and have items altered if necessary. You never want to
look like ten pounds of sugar in a five pound bag!
_______________________
Washington D.C.: Hey Carson, what is the deal with white socks?
My fiance just got new brown leather walking shoes to wear with shorts.
What kind of socks are you supposed to wear with them? Is it ever OK to
wear white socks?
Thanks!!
Carson Kressley: Love the white sox - yes the baseball team.
Hate white socks. They are only appropriate for the gym. When worn with
any other shoe, or (GASP) sandal, one invetibally looks like a German
tourist seeking directions to the Washington Monument.
_______________________
The OC, Ca.:
Love the show.
K-swiss classics or Puma sneakers? Please advise
Carson Kressley: Love em both. Although K-swiss is a little preppier; and Puma has a better color run. Don't forget Tretorns are back!
_______________________
When do you sleep?:
So how many chats/appearances are you doing today?
Carson Kressley: I sleep in meetings at the office. It really
tends to free up time! I am a busy, busy lady. But I do manage to get
6-8 hours of sleep each night. And I need all the beauty sleep I can
get!
_______________________
Arlington, Va.:
Hi Carson,
Tell me, what's the difference between a $50 tie and a $300. tie.
Carson Kressley: About $250.
Carson Kressley: And you people thought I couldn't do math! Ties
like any garment are about quality. I think you can certainly get a
good quality tie for $50 at any major dept store. The really expensive
designer ones are just not worth it, unless it is a very, very special
occaision.
_______________________
Rockville, MD:
Hi Carson!; My husband thinks I don't dress sexy enough,
and I know he's right. I am tall/skinny/flat and get
frustrated in places like Victoria's Secret. I usually shop in
Ann Taylor for nice business attire because their stuff is
tailored to my shape, but, I can't afford to buy my entire
wardrobe there. I tend to live in flat front khakis and
collared knit shirts. Any suggestions on how to update my
look without spending a fortune?
Carson Kressley: Ann Taylor is wonderful for career basics, but
it is not what I think of when I think of sexy. Add seasoning to your
current wardrobe by adding a few sexy heels, tops and skirts. They are
like salt and pepper on food. Just a dash will do the trick. Try a
designer consignment shop or Loehmanns.
_______________________
London, UK:
Carson:
When can I wear Doc Martens in the U.S. again?
Carson Kressley: How does never work for you?
_______________________
Arlington, Va.:
Love the show, can't wait to read the book. I'm taking your advice and buying a tux. What kind of shoes go with it?
Carson Kressley: Keep it all simple. Look for old photos of Cary
Grant and get exactly what he is wearing. A patent lace up tuxedo shoe
is nice. Or if you really want to knock their socks off, wear an
evening slipper from Stubbs & Wooten of Palm Beach. Oh, and take
your socks off too, as they only look good with bare ankles.
_______________________
Washington, D.C.:
I love top brand name clothes, but usually can't afford them (Zegna and
Versace fit me really well). Is there any place you reccomend to go and
find those brand names for less. Off Saks is good, but any other
places? Thanks!
Carson Kressley: You have come to the right place, my little bitty thrifty one. I too LOVE a good bargain. Here are some of my faves:
Century 21 in New York (worth the trip)
Loehmanns
Marshalls, but better for home furnishings
Designer Re-Sale or Consignment shops (not to be confused with Thrift Stores)
Bluefly.com
Go, shop, be fabulous!
_______________________
Arlington, Va.:
What is the proper number of buttons to have on a man's suit coat? Two
are traditional, but I have seen three and even four. What is the
correct number? Thanks
Carson Kressley: Very good. Two is correct, and three is having
a moment as well. For taller gents I recommend three. Creates a better
scale on the body. Four buttons require a very expensive trombone as an
accessorie. Ix Nay on the four button.
_______________________
Washington, D.C.:
Were you born this fabulous or was it an evolution?
Carson Kressley: I was born a poor black child in the parking lot of a Kmart in Decatur, Alabama. Then one day...
No I was not born this fab. It happened over time. After arduous
years of retail training. But really, everyone evolves. My motto is
"Don't Find Yourself, Create Yourself"!
_______________________
Fairfax, Va.: I really like Anderson Cooper's sense of style!
Plus, his coloring is similar to mine - my hair is prematurely grey at
age 25. Do you think I can get away with copying his look - at least
for the office? How can I update it to make it work for me?
A fan of both Carson and Anderson
Carson Kressley: Absolutely. That is what we call finding a
fashion role model. I think Andy looks great too. And I won't even tell
him you are copying his look. Just don't start using his credit cards.
That is FRAUD.
PS Anderson comes from Fashion Royalty - his mom is the one and only Gloria Vanderbilt!
_______________________
Washington, D.C.:
How many suits does a man really need and what fabric and color?
Carson Kressley: It really depends on your lifestyle. If you
wear a suit to work each day, you should have at least three for fall
and winter and two for summer. You can freshen up with interesting
dress shirt and tie combos to make them look "new" each day. If you
work in a casual environment you need only one or two. Chose a medium
grey or navy in medium weight wool.
_______________________
Washington, D.C.:
Just saw your Web site. You were in town yesterday???????????? And no
more scheduled stops in the D.C. area? What's a girl to do?
Carson Kressley: I think my DC days are over. Might be in town
for the Kerry inauguration. Did I remind you to vote. Oh, yeah, I just
did. Keep checking on my website. I may be in Baltimore or Philly. I'm
worth the drive.
_______________________
Washington, D.C.:
Hi Carson,
My boyfriend is a good dresser and seems to pick out his own
clothing quite well. Last year he was asking for a pair of Bloundstones
(sp?) but his birthday came and went and I never got them. Are these
boots still in style or is there something else you hisn't until early
December but never too early to start looking, right?
Thanks!
Carson Kressley: LOVE the Blundstones! They look great with
jeans, cords, and sometimes daringly with a corduroy suit. They are
from Australia, which also produces really hot men. You can find them
at RMWilliams.com, the boots, not the men.
_______________________
Harrsiburg, Pa.:
What clothes go best when buying your book?
Carson Kressley: Cashmere and a smile. Snaps to Harrisburg. I am from PA too!
_______________________
Washington, D.C.:
Are suits with pleats and cuffs permanently unfashionable or is this just a temporary fad? Same question with two-button suits.
Carson Kressley: Pleats and cuffs work well on traditional
British styles suits. This is the ONLY time pleats work. Two button
suit are also very traditional and always look good, especially on
shorter guys.
_______________________
Washington D.C.:
Any suggestions for relatively inexpensive shopping outside of the
metropolitan New York area? Translation: name some good stores (dept or
otherwise) for women/men, that won't break the proverbial bank..!
Carson Kressley: Washington DC is not a hot bed for shopping.
But, alas, I bring glad tidings, there are plenty of stores in the
burbs. Try Saks, Nordstrom and Hechts. Sale time is a great time to get
Dept store quality and service at bargain prices. Best sales are mid
summer and after the holidays. There are also some outlet centers in
the DC area. Try premiumoutlets.com.
_______________________
Geneva, Switzerland:
Carson,
What are your favorite jeans for women?
Carson Kressley: Right now I love Tsubi, from Australia.
_______________________
Frederick, Md:
Carson,
Are Trucker Hats out of style except for celebs?
Carson Kressley: And truckers.
_______________________
Washington, D.C.:
Carson, Stay and talk with us ALL DAY..
Can short women wear cuffed trousers?Carson Kressley: I
have to get home to my wife and kids! No really, back to the question.
Cuffed pants look great on women, especially if you are a tall gal.
Remember how great they looked on Katherine Hepburn? Thought so.
_______________________
Easton, MD: Carson, is there an age when long hair is
inappropriate on women? I am 45 and have very curly auburn hair that is
a bit longer than shoulder length. What should I do to look currant?
Chris
Carson Kressley: Do you really want to look like a small grape
used mostly in the making of wine? I think you mean current. Did I tell
you I used to be an English teacher? It sounds to me like you have
gorgeous hair. And despite your age, which by the way 45 is the new 35,
if it looks beautiful keep it long!
_______________________
Beltsville, Md.:
Is it still OK to wear a shearling motorcycle jacket this fall?
Carson Kressley: Yes. Just be sure to wear pants and a shirt or
sweater too. Love the shearling motorcycle jacket. John Varvatos and
Ralph Lauren make great ones and certainly vintage is great too!
_______________________
Washington, D.C.:
What should I do with all of my pleated trousers?
washingtonpost.com :
Good Will or Salvation Army?
Carson Kressley: Go with Goodwill. I think the Salvation Army doesn't like "the Gays". Wait a minute. In that case, Salvation Army it is.
_______________________
Leesburg, Va.:
Carson dear:
How much pink is too much pink? I have been addicted to pink for
years and fear I am dangerously close to the point of making people
puke. Will it ever be "out"? How to wean myself off of my default
color? Grazie.
Carson Kressley: I too have fallen victim to o.c.p.d. aka
"obsessive compulsive pink disorder. I feel your pain. Pink is my
favorite color but do not dress in pink from head to toe. You could
look like a walking ham.
_______________________
Centreville, Va:
Carson,
Should short women wear capris?
Carson Kressley: Short women yes. Short men, no. In fact, men
should never wear capris. Unless they are "summering" on Fire Island
with a man named Sergio.
_______________________
Timbucktoo, Arkansas:
Carson Carson Carson
Is tweed better worn in the hamptons or the city?
Carson Kressley: Tweed is great anywhere; city or country. Work
the accessories to change the mood. Think rugged boots and oxfords for
country and sleek tailored loafers for city. The best of both worlds.
PS Where in God's green earth is Timbuktoo, Ark?
_______________________
Janet Bennett: Thanks, everyone, that was awesome!
_______________________
