Dear Answer Angel: I read that the “it” color for fall is burgundy. I don’t really follow fashion trends very much and, although I like the shade, I don’t want to buy something that will be out of style as fast as it became THE color for fall 2024. Is burgundy here to stay or a passing fad?

Also, although I’m considering buying some pants in that shade, I am not sure what other colors work with burgundy.

--Jasmine P.

Dear Jasmine: Burgundy is the new black. The color—some might call it wine, crimson, plum, dark maroon or deep red—goes with everything. Including black. Treat it like a basic and pair it with purple, lilac, gray, white, turquoise and yellows of all hues, especially rich gold. It’s a long list.

High-end Gucci is heavily into burgundy so you’re in good company if you’re tempted to add this color to your wardrobe. To envision what looks good with this shade, search for “what colors go with burgundy” and you’ll find all kinds of pairings that will inspire you to experiment with items you already have in your closet.

Dear Answer Angel Ellen: I was on vacation with a generous and fashionable girlfriend at her swoon-worthy home in the Hamptons. While there I picked up a local publication that had several ads for “wardrobe management” services. I was embarrassed to ask my friend what on earth such companies do. So, I’m asking you!

--Emily N.

Dear Emily: If, like me, you have to ask what wardrobe management companies actually do, chances are you do not need this service. They are businesses that “curate” and digitize your clothing and accessories, pack and ship them to a (climate controlled) facility where they can be stored, cleaned, sanitized, repaired, insured and managed. You can then monitor all of these items through the digital photos inventory on your phone and have them shipped to whatever house, mansion, estate, castle, yacht (when in port), etc. you desire.

This eliminates the guesswork and bother of keeping track of where your wearables are at any given moment. And, if you get tired of any of these items in your inventory, this service will also sell them for you.

How much does this cost? If you have to ask, you can’t afford it. But words that come to mind: astronomical, gigantic and yow!

Can you help?

Diane G. writes: “I have been fortunate to have my hair turn an attractive (I'm told!) silver/gray. I use blue shampoos for silver hair but have been unable to find one that doesn't leave a chemical smell in my hair. I really do not want to spend $25 for a bottle of shampoo. Do your readers have any suggestions?

A lament from Peggy G.: “I'm over 50, short-waisted and big-busted. People in my office dress casually (think leggings), but I prefer dresses. I think that A-line dresses below the knee would look fine, but can find very few in brick-and-mortar stores, and get overwhelmed when sorting through online sites. Can your readers suggest sites to try?”

Angelic Readers 1

David H. shares a frugal option after reading my solution to the problem of things dropped into the gap between you car seat and the console. I bought inexpensive “car seat gap fillers” on amazon.com, which have been a godsend. But here’s what he recommends: “Buy a length of foam pipe insulation (Home Depot, Lowe's or a hardware store). Cut to whatever length you want. They come in various diameters. Way cheaper than the item in your column.”

Angelic Readers 2

I wrote that I think primers that you slather on before putting makeup on top of them are unnecessary. Staci A. disagrees -- in one specific area: “The one type of primer that really makes a difference is eyelash primer. Used before mascara, it definitely makes my lashes appear longer. I've used several brands, but find L'Oréal to be the best. It works just as well as pricier brands.”

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