Yes! I have a question!

Here's your chance! Each month, Mary Lou answers your fashion, wardrobe, and accessorizing questions. If you have something that you need to know, ask away! If your question is chosen, you'll receive a complimentary Organization By Design Survival Kit. What have you got to lose?!

For May, 1998:

Q: I wear black, brown and navy shoes with just about everything. What are the acceptable colors of hose to wear with each color shoe this time of year?

A: This time of year, it's okay to lighten up the hose you wear no matter the color shoe. A "buff" (not quite nude but far lighter than cream) colored hose is a good staple to have in your wardrobe. We particularly like Travel Buff by Hanes.

Here are some specific guidelines:

Black shoes -- black and buff hose (black shoes, hose and hem will give you a monochromatic line -- a good strategy for short women. A "barely" black shade is a good choice if you want to wear black during the day in the warmer months.)

Navy shoes -- navy, buff and very light cream hose (white and cream hose that are not sheer can make you look like a nurse! White hose are a bit dated -- it takes a very trained fashion eye to make white hose look stylish. The "buff" is a better choice for most women). If you want to wear navy, again, choose sheer navy as opposed to a darker shade.

Brown -- nude and buff. We prefer the buff because it offers more coverage (i.e. more confidence!) to the average woman. Chocolate brown hose are too dark in the summer.

Extra tip -- opaque hose (a.k.a. tights) are too heavy this time of year with any of your fashions. They actually make your legs look heavier when worn with summer's lighter fabrics.