Q: What is your opinion on the purchasing of more than one of the same item? I've always heard this was a big fashion no-no. However, as a very busy woman who doesn't have much time to shop, when I find something that works, I tend to grab two, sometimes three, of the same exact item.
A: Ahh, buying multiples. A shopping practice beloved by many, but also one with hidden pitfalls.
If you've worn something into the ground, buying multiples of its replacement makes sense. You know from experience that this item works for you and gets worn regularly. And since the first version got worn hard and long, replacing it with multiples will allow you to spread the wear and tear over several garments.
If you find a particular garment painfully hard to fit and stumble across a version that looks smashing on you, buying multiples makes sense. The obvious example here is jeans; we all love them, but finding the perfect pair can feel impossible. So when you do find that pair, go ahead and buy a few so you'll have ready reserves when the first pair bites the dust.
In almost all other cases? Buying multiples is a risky practice. Most people know what they like, but few can accurately predict which items will become wardrobe staples. Just because that top looks amazing on you doesn't mean you'll wear it every week and therefore need several versions in rotation.
Most multiples end up unworn, taking up valuable closet space. So unless you are certain that this brand new, untested item will become a pillar of your personal style, take one home and leave the rest.
Q: Can you recommend some fashionable yet practical commuter footwear?
A: Absolutely. I know there are lots of women out there who hope to avoid the "Melanie Griffith in Working Girl" look of chunky, white New Balance sneakers worn with crisp suiting.