DEAR SHOPPING: I am a college student who is curvy and petite. I am 5-foot-1 and my size varies – mostly 6 to 8. Where can I purchase affordable pants and skirts that are comfortable enough to wear when relaxing and classy enough for school.
– Lindsey, Sacramento
DEAR LINDSEY: Petite Sophisticate was once a popular source for petite apparel. The brand was purchased by Charming Shoppes (it owns Lane Bryant) and relaunched as an outlet store almost two years ago. There's one in the Vacaville Premium Outlets. Another good source is Ann Taylor Loft. At www.anntaylorloft.com you can search for petite pants that are tailored specifically for curvy figures. They are reasonably priced and come in appropriate styles for classroom and afterward. Store locations are listed there, too.
DEAR SHOPPING: I used Ready, a perfume by Abercrombie & Fitch, for several years. Unfortunately it has been discontinued. I'm using Light Blue by Dolce & Gabbana, but it doesn't have the same depth as Ready. Can you recommend a replacement?
– Natalie, Sacramento
DEAR NATALIE: I found a new, 1-ounce box of Ready fragrance available on eBay for $29.99. But here's a tip: If you have any of the Ready left, or the D&G fragrance, take it to the fragrance counter at Nordstrom. They're good at finding as close as possible a match to the fragrance you want.
Also send questions to Shopping for Answers, P.O. Box 15779, Sacramento, CA 95852.
