Ask the expert: Are patterned tights a good fit for the office?

Q: Do you have an opinion on patterned tights in the office?

A: Do I ever. Overall, I think subtly patterned tights — especially small, regular geometrics like dots or basket weaves — are suitable for all but the most conservative of office environments. Sheer, patterned tights are a fabulous option for transitional weather: If it's too warm for opaques but too far into the season to do bare legs, a pair of black tights with low-contrast diamonds or chevrons will look a bit more interesting and contemporary than sheer black nylons.

Now prepare yourself for a boatload of "howevers": Fishnets are risky across the board, because for many people that pattern still screams "lady of the night." There are some marvelous fishnet variations out there, including microfishnets over a layer of sheer black nylon, but still proceed with caution. Multicolored patterned tights are far quirkier and more casual than tone-on-tone and low-contrast options, so reserve them for creative environments and casual wear. And bold patterns like large-scale florals, wide stripes and busy paisleys won't look as sophisticated as their more subdued cousins.

Still unsure? Ask HR about dress code specifications, or check in with your co-workers. Every working environment is different, and I'd hate to get you fired for splashing out on a pair of pin-dot tights.

Q: I have a new pair of knee-high boots that have a zipper on the inner ankle. The boots kind of sag a little, so the leather around the ankle buckles in. Has this ever happened to you? Any advice to fix it?

A: I feel for you, friend. In fact, I sympathize because virtually all of my knee-high boots do the same thing, regardless of zipper style.

In most cases, the calf of a lady-leg is larger in circumference than the ankle, and each boot style is designed with a specific calf-to-ankle ratio. The footbed size will vary to accommodate various shoe sizes, but the ratio stays relatively fixed. So unless your unique calf-to-ankle ratio lines up with the ratio used for a particular boot style, you're going to get some bunching. A partial zipper on the inner ankle aggravates this tendency, but full-zip boots do it, too.

If you go for option four — acceptance and resignation — you're in good company. Sneak a peek at knee-high boots worn by other women and you'll see that the majority of us deal with a little ankle-bunching.

Q: I've heard that many leaders (Steve Jobs, President Obama, etc.) choose a "work uniform" to avoid making decisions about what to wear each day. What work uniform options would you recommend I consider? (I'm a professional in my 30s, and my work environment is business casual.)

A: Some style mavens find personal uniforms dull and predictable, but plenty of fashion tastemakers love them. Have you ever seen Carolina Herrera in anything other than a white button-front? Or Vera Wang without her beloved leggings? Uniforms make dressing quicker and easier, but also broadcast power and confidence. Picking a few for yourself is a smart and savvy practice.

When I work with style consult clients, three business casual formulas generally arise. The first is an outer layer (blazer, cardigan, jacket), a printed top, and a skirt or pair of pants. The idea here is that the printed top adds interest and movement, but also serves as a bridging piece. For instance, a floral top with burgundy, navy and olive in its print allows you to wear a burgundy blazer and navy pants, or an olive cardigan and navy skirt. Use the print's colors to guide your choices.

The second is a jacket or blazer with a dress. The jacket adds instant structure and formality, which means you can opt for a classic sheath dress or a more casual fit-and-flare and still look professional. The two elements create balance, and also a bit of a blank slate. You can include a statement necklace to liven up your look, belt the dress to accent your waist or throw on a scarf to add color or print to the mix.