FASHION Q & amp;A

Q: I'm a college student on a tight budget, but I'm not a jeans and T-shirt girl: My typical outfit would involve my grandmother's Pucci-esque scarf, worn low on my hips (to separate two black pieces) or as a hair band. Where can I find chic clothes that won't break my bank?
A: Begin with the obvious: estate sales, flea markets, your grandmother's closet, thrift shops (especially at your local church, where they often have surprisingly good finds). Then there's the Internet. For something specific, say a Pucci-esque scarf, do a search for the item -- you'll be amazed at the bargains. Another money-saving tip: Shop with a similarly fashion-centric friend, have the order delivered to one address, and split shipping costs.
Q: I'm attending an evening black-tie wedding and don't have a clue what to wear -- especially since I am (1) painfully skinny from a recent illness; (2) a tomboy; and (3) don't have a lot of cash. Any suggestions?
A: Absolutely! First, consider black pants and a dressy top. Another option is a full-length column dress with a short jacket. Finally, a chiffon or beaded scarf can dress you up or add coverage.
Q: Help! About seven months ago I badly broke my ankle. Now I have to wear space-hogging orthotic inserts in my shoes. My doctor advised me to stick to sneakers -- even at work -- but picture me wearing a black skirt and professional top with running shoes to meetings! Can you help me find work-appropriate, stylish shoes that still fit my needs?
A: In instances like these, your doctor's opinion is key, so always run suggestions by him to see if they fit your case. Go European. Birkenstocks are known for comfort, and they're not only for your chem prof (or just sandals) anymore -- model Heidi Klum is even designing one.
Arche shoes, from France, also come in suitable styles. Among them: zip-up booties that work well with skirts. The soft nubuck should accommodate your orthotic, and you'll look very '80s-art-gallery girl (www.fusaroshoes.com).
If what you want is a sleeker athletic shoe, try Puma or Adidas in black, chocolate brown and other subtle colors. These may be a bit narrow for an orthotic, so try the corresponding size in men's for more room. Finally, visit Comfort One Shoes (see www.comfortoneshoes.com for locations). The name says it all, and the store's specially trained staff can work with your orthotic or other special foot needs.
Washington Post