Answer Angel: Ponytails?

Dear Answer Angel Ellen: What is your opinion on ponytails for women (and men). Are they really considered attractive?

When I was in my early 20s, I occasionally would put my hair in a ponytail until my mom suggested that I get a shorter hairstyle, which I did and I have been pleased ever since.

I see more men and women wearing ponytails and it seems to be the "in” thing. Your comment please!

--Helen B.

Dear Helen: I’m a fan of ponytails — although not always.

Let’s start here: In fashion (and hair) there are no rules. There are trends and I’m not seeing a significant increase in ponytails on men.

For women, long hair (including ponytails) is showing up more frequently because of the proliferation of hair extensions. That means just about anybody can have long hair if they’re willing to endure the often hours-long and expensive salon process.

I’m not a fan of male ponytails in general but that’s an individual decision and I’m a big supporter of personal choice.

For people with long hair who exercise, ponytails are not so much a style choice as an easy, practical solution.

Dear Answer Angel Ellen: On a rare sunny day recently, I went downtown to check out the opening of a new store and was stunned to see that spring fashions seem to cost way more than they used to. Is it just me or are moderately priced clothing costs skyrocketing?

--Andrea H.

Dear Andrea: Where I live, there are four stores within a few blocks of each other all known for good pricing on fashionable clothing: H&M, Mango, Zara and a big, new Uniqlo. It seemed to me that prices overall were up considerably from a year ago at three of the four. (H&M was the exception.) It looked like one of the stores had actually put stickers over original price tags to increase the cost of some items.

I’m not an economist but it looks like what you and I saw is the reality of experts’ predictions of increased prices due to tariffs (among other events) hitting the “fast fashion” world.

Angelic Readers

Kitty says: "I recommend that your reader Alice S., who complained about crazy, inconsistent bra sizing, go to a lingerie store to be measured. On a recent visit to Victoria's Secret, I discovered that my bra size had changed and I could wear a smaller cup size. Online shopping has always resulted in bras being too small.”

From Linda R.: “I read Alice S.’s bra lament and happen to have a large rib cage (44 inches) but minimal bust. Once upon a time there was a bra available where they were sized as ‘nearly a B cup’ that actually fit (mostly). Now add the frustration of straps that won’t stay in place. And rotator cuff issues that make front closure the preferred style. So where the heck are front closure, large band, small cup, racer back (Y-shaped) straps bras?”

Pat M. wants a good bra solution too: “Despite having had numerous professional fittings, I have never found a comfortable bra. I am now at the age where I would like to abandon bras altogether, but I need something to wear under summer clothes. Can anyone suggest a camisole or similar item that will let me breathe free while still avoiding embarrassment?”

Reader Rant

Sandra L. writes: “ I have no patience with those who shop online and complain that ‘it doesn't fit or isn't right’ and have to return it. In our town people are constantly getting packages delivered to the wrong house. No one is that busy that they can't visit a store, try on the clothing and take it home! There are bargains to be had at thrift stores and estate sales, as well as the stores. Let's give our friends who have stores a chance!!” (From Ellen: I’ve long advocated thrift stores and estate sales and am a huge fan of supporting local businesses. Nothing beats trying on clothes in-store before buying, but it isn’t always possible.)