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In Store: Must Have Accessories
With Janet Bennett
washingtonpost.com
Tuesday, Mar. 20, 2001; 4 p.m. EST

Mackie Gardner opened her Old Town shoe-box-size boutique, Hysteria, almost two years ago with a cache of unique handbags, jewelry, hats and more, designed to jazz up the requisite black pants or everyday suits of Washington women.

Now she's ready for another challenge, partnering with sales expert Courtney Reynolds and her business whiz brother Tom Gardner (of Motley Fool) with the goal of opening future stores like Hysteria.

Today, Gardner talks to host Janet Bennett and responds to your questions about spring (and fall) colors, what's the hot handbag to have now, what belts work best and the jewelry that Julia Roberts swears by. Want to know who the next Kate Spade is and more about must-have accessories?

Janet Bennett was born in New York and considers it her birthright to shop. She inherited the shopping bug from her mother and grandmother before her who were regulars at the original Loehmann’s in Brooklyn. After leaving the Big Apple, Bennett proudly took up the gauntlet in D.C. and has been pounding the pavement here for washingtonpost.com since October 1999.

Below the transcript follows.

Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.

Janet Bennett: Welcome, Mackie. I'm delighted to have you online with us today. And I know our audience has oodles of questions on gotta-have accessories this spring. And I'd like to begin with one burning question. Just who is the next Kate Spade????

Mackie Gardner: Hi Janet! We are all ready for the next Kate Spade! I have your answer! Isabella Fiore is a bag designer who is producing beautiful and chic hand-embellished bag in all sorts of whimsical patterns. Her shapes are very classic and her bags very sophisticated. Word on the fashion avenues of New York City are that she is the next big bag hit!

help: I travel a lot (a LOT) for my job and have to wear suits . . . I basically have a black suit wardrobe (blacks, greys, etc) and a brown suit wardrobe, with a few color pieces to break up the monotony now again (mostly I do this so I only have to pack one pair of work shoes each week). When in the office I can go with "business casual" though
I admit I'm often more on the business end than the casual end. I am ok with throwing a scarf in to liven the outfit up (and can mange to tie it or pin it well enough). Here is my big issue: WHERE WHERE WHERE can I buy decent belts that won't cost me as much as the outfit I am wearing!!!! I'm a bargain hunter (ast the moment am wearing $98 dress slacks I picked up for $5 2 weeks ago!!!) . . . don't have a lot of time to shop in person . . . any websites you can suggest, or any central locations for belts and such?

Mackie Gardner: Well, as you know, belts are the hot accessory for Spring and the upcoming Fall season. What seems the be the trendiest at the moment are belts embelleshed with rhinestones on the buckles. You can find these belts at Hysteria, in Old Town, Alexandria retailing for around fifty dollars. If you need something slightly more conservative at a lower price point, then I would try shopping at a franchise like Banana Republic. These chain stores will often follow the trends of high fashion designers. But, you should try a belt with some flair! Pick a belt that is conservative but has a funky buckle. That is a great way to make the monotony of a suit look tres chic.

Washington, D.C.: What is the new hot handbag of choice ? I'm so sick of the Kate Spade bags, and all the similar ones with the little short handles. Is there a new shape out there that you can really through over your shoulder ? (and actually have a two free hands to carry something else ?)

Mackie Gardner: Well, as I was saying before, Isabella Fiore handbags are the hottest item around town! They come in many different shapes and sizes so you can buy a handbag or a shoulder bag. Also, Tote Le Monde makes a very chic backpack that with one click of a buckle transforms into a handbag! This line is great for the basic leather bag which should be a staple in every woman's wardrobe.

Janet Bennett: Whatever happened to the watch craze or is it still going on? If so, what's your idea of a cool-looking watch?

Mackie Gardner: Well, the watch craze is definitely still "in", but one thing is missing!....The watch face!
What seems to be very very hip at the moment is to wear bracelets that are modeled after watch bands. These are found at Bergdorf's in New York.

arlington: Good Afternoon,
I will admit that I am a handbag junkie...especially Kate Spade. Who is the next hot designer of handbags and where can we buy one??!

Thanks a bunch...

Mackie Gardner: If you are a handbag junkie, then you are going to go crazy over Isabella Fiore! Her bags are very unique, sophisticated, and chic. Julia Roberts is amongst one of the celebrity following that have been collecting her hand-embellished bags.

Georgetown: Is it just me, or does the latest spring line seem uninspired? I've been looking, and there really doesn't appear to be a theme or coherence. What do you think are some standouts in the spring line? In particular, what do you recommend in terms of purses? I have been looking for a new one to replace my tired Kate Spade. Thanks.

Mackie Gardner: Well, Spring is smothered in Burberry colors which I find to be very refreshing. Stick to these colors and you will be the cutest walking on the streets of Georgetown. Camoflage is very very hot in New York but may be a bit harsh for the streets of Washington. Try a belt with a fancy belt buckle, or spice up your Spring wardrobe with a gorgeous bag by Isabella Fiore...the hottest bag designer on the streets of the fashion district in New York!

Philadelphia, Penn.: Mackie: Asked this question when Betsey Fisher was on a few weeks ago and she didn't seem to know what I was talking about. Hope you can help since you are the accessories expert! I am dying for a Lambertson Truex handbag but they are way out of my price range. Specifically, I love the small tote with white stitching around the seams and handles. Can you recommend a more reasonable alternative? Thanks.

Mackie Gardner: I hate to say this, but I am not familiar with this line, either! So sorry that I can't help you with this question.

Alexandria, Virginia: Speaking of Kate Spade, I have been buying her handbags in New York, Now you see them carried by everyone downtown, with knockoffs being sold on every corner. I am looking for a new fabulous handbag designer - any suggestions ?

Mackie Gardner: Isabella Fiore bags are beautiful and sophisticated. But, if you are looking for an everyday bag that matches everything try hot new designer MZ Wallace. These bags are made from canvas in fun color combinations. They are great for toting lots over your shoulder. Also, Buzz by Jane Fox bags are very chic and fun. Each bag has a small bee handstitched on the bag which we love over at Hysteria as the bee is our logo. Come check it all out!

Janet Bennett: Janet here, Mackie. A couple of questions: First, what's with watches this spring. They used to be so hot. Are they still, and which ones? Also, if there's one accessory that you can't live without, what would it be?

Mackie Gardner: Hi Janet! Well, as I was saying before, what is really in at the moment is not a watch but the watch band. Many designers are making bracelets from watch bands and excluding the watch face! This is a look that is very hot at the moment. But, if you are set on a watch. The Baby-G watches were very hot last summer. Swatch is making a massive comeback, as well. As everyone is saying..."The 1980's are back!"

Vermont: any suggestions for an Easter bonnet?

Mackie Gardner: Yes, indeedee! Try a beautiful straw hat from Annabell Ingall, an Australian designer. Or, you can do as my brother does, and go without a bonnet and have a natural "nest egg" head.

Washington, DC: Is everyone in NYC really wearing those stiletto-heel shoes with the pointy, pointy toes that I'm seeing in all the mags and catalogs? Just looking at them hurts my feet! What is a fashionable alternative for spring?

Mackie Gardner: This heel is very "in"! I know it is an adjustment at first, but once you get used to this shoe it becomes hard to wear anything else! This is a very sexy look in a very classy way. But, if you are absolutely against this shoe then try a sexy wider heel by Robert Clergerie...the king of sophistication mixed with comfort.

Janet Bennett: I adore sunglasses and wear them all year long. What's the new shape? Are we going back to the bigger Jackie O types?

Mackie Gardner: Well, it is hard to say. The big Jackie O look was huge in New York last Spring but things change quickly here. The look now is aviator! Prada, Gucci and all the biggies are doing this shape with sheer lenses. Talk about rockstar!!!!!!!

Janet Bennett: The big stocking question: Is barely there still the color? Should you still pick a color that's as near to your flesh tones as possible, that is, if it's still too cool to go bare-legged?

Mackie Gardner: Well, for the Spring season barely there is still it! With one exception, patterned stocking and fishnets are big in New York. But, will they fly in D.C? Maybe on the streets of Georgetown but not on Capital Hill. Stick to barely there and stay away from dark shades for Spring.

Bethesda, MD: Tell me you carry Isabella Fiore at your store....

Janet Bennett: Any other hot handbag designers you carry? Is Lulu Guinness still big?

Mackie Gardner: I am glad you asked! We are carrying Isabella Fiore this Spring arriving late April. It is worth the wait! We will be carrying Lulu Guiness for Fall. What is exciting about Lulu's Fall line is that she is producing an every day line that is priced much more reasonably. These bags are going to be ADORABLE...hand made and truly special. This Spring we will be carrying Tote Le Monde, and we are bringing in five or six new designers that are very sweet and chic. Come and see!

Washington, D.C.: Mackie,
Silver or Gold?

Mackie Gardner: GOLD

Arlington, Va.: Are scarves still in? --scarves for the hair and around the neck? What is the hot accessory out in LA?

Mackie Gardner: BELTS BELTS BELTS! This is what Spring is all about this year. Rhinestone belts, camo belts, leather belts with big buckle, monogrammed belts....must haves!
I believe that a scarf is a timeless item. I think they are classy and sophisticated and a woman always look put together with this sort of finishing touch.

Washington DC : I've lived in London for a few years and found that on average, accessories are a much larger part of a woman's wardrobe over there. This may have something to do with the fact that Brit girls tend to have just a few expensive outfits rather than a deluge of cheaper (and wide-ranging) clothes. Do you see the US following this trend... or is the absence of accessories something ingrained in our culture?

Mackie Gardner: For the past five years, the trend seems to be heading for accessories. I believe that our culture is beginning to learn that it is much finer looking and more econimical to invest in some true staples for clothing and spice everything up with accessories. This was my motivation for my shop.

Janet Bennett: Mackie, what is your opinion of this socks with sandals thing that I've seen in some fashion mags? Not a good city (or for that matter) country look either!

Mackie Gardner: To be honest, stay away from this! It screams "Earth Mama" to me and I wouldn't be caught dead in this look. Try a cute pedicure, instead!

Bethesda, MD: Hello...I have been seeing a lot of bright colors (pinks, blues, yellow) for the spring season. I love the look, but it's expensive to buy shoes to match each outfit. Is it acceptable to wear black sandals or do you have another alternative? Thanks!

Janet Bennett: And what about if you have something black. Can you wear another color shoe or are you stuck with black there, too?

Mackie Gardner: I would invest in a pair of Black sandals and a pair of brown sandals. This way you will be able to mix them well with a bright colored wardrobe. With the sandy shades wear your brown sandals and with your bolder tones go with the black. If you want to "go for it" on a color then buy red! Red is a wonderful color for a sandal and looks great with khaki, black, white and grey.

Arlington, Va.: Mackie,
I'm on a budget! What are some must have accessories that are affordable? Are you having a sale soon?

Mackie Gardner: No more sales at Hysteria this season...so sorry. We just finished with our huge February sale but we do have a few items left on sale. I would buy a belt with a funky buckle. Also, one souped up handbag is always a great investment because it will make even the most basic of outfits look very special.

Washington, DC: What about all of the ethnic and ribbon style headbands I saw last year. Still hot?

Mackie Gardner: Well, some are hot, some are not. :) The ribbon headbands will remain timeless but the whole Bohemian look is on its way out. What is hot now are rhinestones, mirrors and fancy bright patterns. I know it is a big adjustment but if you let yourself consider it, these looks are really fun and filled with whimsical humor.

washington dc: What's the new look for earrings? Is the large hoop (Jennifer Lopez) look still in?

Mackie Gardner: Small hoops, medium hoops, big hoops, gold hoops, rhinestone hoops, beaded hoops! Any hoop you can get in your ear will make you part of the trendiest group around...this is a very hot item at the moment.

Arlington: While I was visiting some friends (in NY), one of them had a bag that had the name texirr (I think that's how it's spelled). Haven't been able to find it anywhere but it was a really chic, maroon bowling bag. Any thoughts?

Mackie Gardner: Well, the bowling bag is a very chic look but it is on its way out. At the moment, most designers are moving away from this shape so if you can hold out a season without this look, then I think you will see it to be a trend that isn't worth investing in.

Bethedsa, MD: What are we wearing these belts with? Jeans, shorts, work clothes? I love belts but need some guidance!
Thank you.

Mackie Gardner: Well, of course it depends on the outfit chosen. If you are wearin something casual on the weekend then go with a ribbon belt with a fun pattern. You can mix this with khaki pants and a neutral top or wear it with dark denim. Which by the way is the sexiest look around. Go get some dark denim jeans, like Earl jeans!
If you are thinking of wearing a fun belt to work with suiting then stick to the basics but chose a belt with a fun gold hardware buckle. If you want to truly be on the cutting edge of fashion go with the big monogrammed rhinestone buckle belt that can be coupled with jeans and looks marvelous---you can order these from Bergdorof's in New York and the designer name is Noir.

Vienna, Va.: Is it still cool to wear pashminas? Are they still in? Also, is cashmere out?

Mackie Gardner: Cashmere is NEVER out. Something as basic and sophisticated as a classic cashmere sweater will always stand the test of time. But, pashminas have come and gone, sorry girls!

Arlington, VA: Gold vs. Silver?

I love silver, all my jewelry is silver, my glass are silver. But I do so want to jump ship, tell me it's okay to stay where I am!

Mackie Gardner: GO GOlD and GO BOLD!

Janet Bennett: This is such a hard time of year to figure out what to wear. I'm sick of my winter clothes, but it's still too chilly to break out the spring stuff. Any suggestions?

Mackie Gardner: This time of year is a time for layering. Go with more neutral color tones until we hit mid April. You should chose lighter weight materials and layer the outfit with a beautiful wrap or tie a sweater around your neck that is in a shade that flatters your coloring. This can be a tough time to expose too much skin as we all feel a little washed out from winter months.
Also, try a jacket over a sleeveless top. If it gets too warm you can always shed the jacket but make sure you have been toning up those arms!

NYC: kate spade bags are to today's women as guess jeans were to my 6th grade class.

your thoughts?

Mackie Gardner: Ah, we must be from the same generation! Kate Spade has become much more common. If you search for something with unique flair then search elsewhere.

Going Mod:: What is your take on the mod look? And what are accessories for looking Mod.

Mackie Gardner: How groovy are you looking to be?

Somewhere, USA: Do you ever buy an item just because you -like- it, trends be damned? Maybe that woman thought the maroon bowling bag was totally groovy, just because she liked it. You made it sound like the fad was on its way out, so don't bother. As I'm sure you know, fads are ALWAYS on the way out. Not all of us can afford to buy what's hot this month.

Mackie Gardner: Totally agreed. And the reason I said to stay away from this item is because I believe in investing my money in an item that stands the test of time. When I buy a bag, I look for it to be sophisticated, functional and timeless. I just don't believe the bowling bag to be a staple timeless item.

Washington, DC: If the bowling bag is out... what shapes are in?

Mackie Gardner: Classic shapes in funky patterns. It seems that bag design is going back to the basics and designers are funking things up with the materials the bags are designed in.

NYC: gold vs. silver girl:

ever consider laser surgery?

(p.s. if you're going to do any trading in, stick with silver, it's most like platinum. mmmm, platinum.)

Janet Bennett: Does it have to be either or? Can you mix the two ever or is that a complete no-no?

Mackie Gardner: Well, I think most people either where one or the other based on what compliments them most. Silver is closest to platinum in shade and who can argue with the richness of platinum! But, to be honest, gold is what is hot at the moment. Never trade in what you have always been most comfortable wearing for a trend, but the trend is gold and gold alone.

washington, dc: What about doctor style bags? Here and gone?

Mackie Gardner: Well, the doctor bag is an interesting item. I would catagorize them with the bowling bag. But, I think both are very cute. Clever Carriage company makes a beautiful doctor bag that is very convenient to open. But, keep in mind, these bags are handbags and some have problems when they can't sling a bag over their shoulders.

Scarf Challenged - Norfolk, VA: I just can't seem to make a scarf look like it's meant to be there - what shape would you suggest to throw on with a basic outfit? I even bought a scarf when I was in Paris - do as the Parisians do - but left it in the hotel room in a huff after not getting it to look right!

Mackie Gardner: I would go with a basic square before you venture out to the other shapes. You can double it over in a triangle and go with an "hermes" look. Or you can roll it up and tie it around your neck like a tie. I think these are the most basic and a great starting shape. What a lucky lady that found your scarf in Paris...I bet it was a beautiful piece.

washington dc: what would be the best go from work to night bag? I need a sexy black bag (or any other color) that can go from the office straight to the happy hour bar. I'm so sick of kate spade, everytime I see gingham I want to gag. I also want a bag that's medium size not the typical large work bags that looks like I just packed my entire cubicle in it.

Mackie Gardner: I think you are answering your own question which is great! I would say a beautiful black handbag that is simple and sleek. You can't beat it for day or evening and it will prove to become a staple. Stay away from metal hardware as this will give a bag a more daytime look.

Janet Bennett: Any thoughts about nail color this spring? I guess I haven't been paying much attention or there is no one noticeable color. I'm partial to light tones myself, but ...

Mackie Gardner: Well, colors are back. I have been seeing lots of bold reds and bright pinks. But, to be honest, I love the look of sheers on nails. I think this look says "sophisticated confidence".

Bethesda, MD: Where can we find Earl Jeans in this conservative area we call home?

Janet Bennett: Mackie, I can take this. I've seen Earl Jeans at Farinelli in Old Town and I've also seen them at Nordstrom. Any other places, Mackie?

Mackie Gardner: Farinelli's is a sure spot to find them. Also, trying calling Bloomingdales because I bet they carry them ,too.

washington dc: what would be the best go from work to night bag? I need a sexy black bag (or any other color) that can go from the office straight to the happy hour bar. I'm so sick of kate spade, everytime I see gingham I want to gag. I also want a bag that's medium size not the typical large work bags that looks like I just packed my entire cubicle in it.

Mackie Gardner: Did you receive my response? Just checking.

Arlington, VA: All this talk of accesories... what about tops. There's been no real new direction with the exception of the batwing cut (love it!).
Are tube tops still in?
is it the year of the button down?
or are we going with the classic tees and sheaths?

Mackie Gardner: The classic T is like a cashmere sweater. A true staple. Try splurging on yourself and refresh you white t-shirt collection. There is nothing less desirable then an old white t-shirt. Tube tops are still around but now they are bejeweled-sequins and beads. But, I think the classics are very in. Button down blouses are very "in" this year.

Arlington, VA: Jeez, are you getting paid to mention Ms. Fiore? Are there NO other bag designers who are creating nice designs at the moment. It seems that you are pushing these a bit strongly.

Mackie Gardner: I am pushing it because I LOVE them. But, yes, there are others:
Buzz
Clever Carriage
Lulu Guiness
Amy Chan
Megan Park
Tote Le Monde
MZ Wallace
need more?

hyattsville, md: Does hose always have to match an outfit? I've seen woman with blue suits with blue panythose and shoes. They look like big lifesize smurfs.

Janet Bennett: I agree, Hyattsville. I don't think matchy matchy is a very good look to emulate.

Mackie Gardner: I agree...I would definitely go with sheer. My favorite shade is "Matte Buff" by Hanes.

Janet Bennett: Where do you get your white T-shirts? Any brand you like?

Mackie Gardner: Well, for a more fitted shirt try Petit Bateau which you can find at Hysteria. But for a more clasic shirt try "White and Warren"--these are beautiful, soft and classic.

North Branford,CT: Mackie, I am a teacher and am moving to the NYC area this summer. What are some basics that I should have to update my wardrobe. I will also be spending ALOT of time at the beach. Any great hat suggestions so I can keep my face wrinkle free?

Mackie Gardner: Cotton hats are "in". If you don't want to invest too much try The Gap or Old Navy for this item. Also, stick to the basics for your wardrobe. Black pants are always staple and dark denim if you want to be a little trendy. Also, try a great patterned handbag and couple this with solid clothing and you are ready to hit Madison Avenue with flair!

Alexandria, VA: Mackie, How to stay chic when you are about to weather 7 more months of pregnancy. I don't want to give up looking fashionable while preggers ! Any suggestions?

Mackie Gardner: Yes! Well, first off, designers are designing clothes that make pregnant sexy! Barneys has a new line out specifically catered towards pregnant women and it is gorgeous! Also, try hangbags and scarves...take the eye away from the stomach and settle it on accessories. Focus on bringing out your face and eyes. Try some adorable shoes!

Janet Bennett: Bethesda, Md: I've always wondered this. When do you wear hose and when do you wear tights?

Janet Bennett: I'll take this. In general, the answer is that you wear tights during the day and stockings or sheerer hose in the evening.

DC: Time for some self-promotion! Where is your store?

Mackie Gardner: Hysteria is in Old Town, Alexandria. It is located on:
115 South Royal Street between King and Prince. Hope to see you soon!

Janet Bennett: I know this isn't exactly an accessory, but I'm dying to find a fab trenchcoat. I love the look and I love the classic. But Burberry's is pretty expensive, at least I think so. Any alternatives?

Mackie Gardner: WEll, we are going to see many Burberry knock-offs over the next year. Their new designer has updated their line and made it so desirable that many chains will be knocking off the look. Try Banana Republic, I am sure they have this look. If not now, look in the Fall.

Janet Bennett: Looking ahead, what are going to be the big colors for fall?

Mackie Gardner: I have seen Burberry colors...
Fall shades, loden green, burgundies, camels...but there is also a trend towards basic black and grey. I think anything goes but muted is more "in" over bold.

Alexandria, VA: I love scarves, and have a number of lovely ones. But my issue is always HOW to wear them. I did the square-knot Girl Scout look when I was 12, and can't stand it any more.

Mackie Gardner: Try rolling it up and tying it around your neck like a scarf. If you have a long narrow scarf the try draping it around the front of your neck and letting it hang loose over your back...very sexy and demure.

Arlington, Va.: What are the must-have accessories for this season? I'm trying to save money and my clothing budget is taking the biggest hit, so I'm hoping to update my wardrobe with a few key accessories. Thanks!

Mackie Gardner: Belts, handbags, and lots of rhinestones!

Janet Bennett: Thanks, Mackie. It's been great as well as informative having you as our guest today. I for one got a lot of answers to questions I've been thinking about lately, especially what to wear right now! We wish you lots of luck with your new partnership with your brother and company and keep us posted about doings at Hysteria. I'll sign off now, but don't forget to take a look at our spring story on the 10 hottest accessories you can buy online. Check out In Store this week.

Washington, D.C.: What is the new look for shoes? Preferably comfortable shoes. I'm not into mules or clogs. Also, do you know good shoe stores?

Mackie Gardner: Robert Clergerie makes beautiful comfortable shoes that stand the test of time. These shoes are a real investment but you will have them for years. For a narrower foot, try Sigerson Morrison shoes--these are classic and eye catching.

Vienna, Va.: Mackie,
What about women who don't want to carry handbags? Any slick and chic stuff for a woman in her twenties to carry stuff in?

Mackie Gardner: That is a tough one! Well, how big are your pockets? :) Try a chic backpack which frees up your hands and looks adorable. But, remember, keep your cell phone in your pocket because you will undoubteldly miss the call if it is in your "pack".

Washington, DC: Follow up question to the Brits vs. US take on accessories:

I confess that I'm one of those girls that impulse shops... I go into a chain store like Banana Republic or Jcrew and purchase something on a whim because it's cheap. I'm trying to take a different tack and am going to go through my wardrobe and get rid of all those things that I haven't worn for years and try to streamline my wardrobe into just a few key pieces. Any recommendations on what to keep... and what to toss? (i.e., colors or hemlines that you don't ever see coming back... or we'll never want to see again?)

Mackie Gardner: Well, I would keep the basics. Keep all basic shades. On hemline, don't trash long or knee length skirts a these are always classic and elegant. As for pants, keep the basics and trash the knickers!

Washington, DC: Scarves tied around the neck - still in and if so, any suggestions?

Mackie Gardner: I believe that scarves never go out of style. The pashmina craze is one story, but other then this, scarves are always beautiful and finish an outfit. You can tie them around your neck, or you can tie them around the handle of a handbag! Either way, they will look stupendous and rich.

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