Answer Angel: 'Big Hair' is back

— Are way too big in the bust because the neckline slips and slides exposing bra straps, or falls off the shoulders

I know from talking with other women, we are not alone in this search. Can you or your readers help? I’m frustrated!

--D.D.

Dear D. D.: As you point out there are plenty of women out there who share your pear-shape body type. But there are just as many, if not more, who wish they had your shape!

Fitted tops will flatter your figure. Twin them with A-line skirts or go for dresses with fitted tops (maybe with a little stretch to emphasize your smaller waist) and flowy or full skirts that don’t cling. An Internet search for “clothes for pear shape women” and “fit and flare” dresses will turn up lots of options. Check out karinadresses.com and you’ll see you what I mean.

Loose tunics that hit near the knee, over a well-fitting shirt tucked into the now- fashionable looser pants (with a “paper bag” waist?) or high-waist jeans with wider legs will add some balance. Readers, let’s help D.D. out with your suggestions for shops and online sites that flatter the pear shape.

Angelic Readers 1

Elizabeth M. was searching for a substitute for her discontinued Glade Powder Fresh spray air freshener. She wanted one that is not “flowery,” “sickeningly sweet” or “artificial” and not a plug-in. Readers stepped up to offer their favorites that meet Elizabeth’s high standards. Beverly T. had a surprising explanation for why she found her favorite: Renuzit Gel Air Freshener Pure Breeze for Pets (amazon.com, 3 for $15.99). “One of my cats is very sensitive to perfume smells and, because I have cats, I need to eliminate odors. Neither I nor the cats notice the smell. Plus you can open the container just a little or all the way. Not a plug-in.” From Sylvia R.: “I really like Febreze spray air freshener Linen & Sky (amazon.com, $5.48) the best. Scent is not sweet, works well and dissipates pretty quickly. Much less sweet than their Honeysuckle, which I bought by mistake once.” Sharon B. recommends Febreze Air Mist Soothe & Restore, which she buys at the grocery store. From Kathleen S.: “I use Fresh Wave Odor Eliminator Spray & Air Freshener (amazon.com, $8.99). It has little or no odor. And odors are gone in minutes. It works especially great in apartments/condos where cooking odors can enter hallways and sometimes into other units.”

Angelic Readers 2

Diane A. writes: I have a suggestion for rejuvenating mascara. I pour distilled water into the tube, put the wand in and stir it a bit. The mascara lasts much longer!”